Saint Matthias Parish Church is a Roman Catholic church known for its distinctive red-brick Baroque architecture, and for being the only Spanish colonial-era church in the Philippines with a cylindrical bell tower.
Nestled in the quiet town of Tumauini, Isabela, Saint Matthias Church is one of the most unique colonial landmarks in Northern Luzon, a proud testament to the rich Spanish colonial heritage of the Philippines.
Originally built in 1707 with light materials (nipa) by Dominican friar Francisco Núñez, the present brick structure was constructed in 1783 by Dominican friars under the guidance of Fr. Domingo Forto and was completed in 1805.
On February 24, 1989, the church was designated a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), and later formally recognized as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines on July 31, 2001.
Locally referred to as the Tumauini Church, this 18th-century structure is among the Philippines’ most treasured colonial-era monuments.
What truly sets Saint Matthias Church apart is its exceptional architectural style. Unlike many other colonial churches predominantly constructed from stone, this Baroque-style parish church features extensive use of ornately crafted red brick and mortar—a rarity in Philippine ecclesiastical architecture.
Saint Matthias Parish Church embodies centuries of faith and artistry. Its façade is adorned with elaborate bas-reliefs and intricate geometric designs, featuring detailed clay insets of flowers, cherubs, and saints, a rare sight that distinguishes it from other heritage churches in the region.
The church is also celebrated for its distinctive bell tower, the only one of its kind in the country. This four-story cylindrical bell tower, which is slightly detached from the main building, remains Tumauini’s most iconic silhouette. The bells within still show signs of past conflicts, bearing bullet holes, yet have never been recast.
Inside, the interiors reveal a blend of Dominican austerity and local craftsmanship, characterized by a relatively simple and rustic design compared to its highly ornate, cylindrical baroque facade.
The church consists of a single nave, exemplifying a classic Philippine Spanish-colonial design. It is particularly noted for retaining a traditional pulpit, a rarity among some older, restored churches in the Philippines. The interior exudes a serene, often dim ambiance, emphasizing its age and historical significance.
Adjacent to the church are the remnants of the original convent, a significant yet partially ruined edifice located on the gospel side of the main church.
Dedicated to Saint Matthias, the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot, the church serves as the spiritual heart of the local community and persists as an essential aspect of Tumauini’s cultural identity. Despite its age, the church remains a vibrant parish that continues to anchor the local community, harmonizing heritage with devotion.
The feast day of Saint Matthias, observed annually on the 14th of May, stands as a significant event for the town, attracting visitors and devotees alike.
Saint Matthias Church in Tumauini offers a unique glimpse into the country’s colonial past, blending faith, history, and artistry in one remarkable site.
Visitors can appreciate not only the church’s architectural splendor but also the serene atmosphere that surrounds it. The church stands proudly amidst the town center, inviting visitors to explore its historical interiors and the stories embedded in its walls. It is an essential destination for anyone interested in Philippine history, architecture, and religious heritage.