The Rizal Park and Shrine in Dapitan City is a historical site commemorating Dr. Jose Rizal’s exile in the area from 1892 to 1896.

It encompasses the estate he purchased and where he lived, built structures like his house, clinic, and school, and engaged in community development projects.

In 1892, Dr. José Rizal was exiled to Dapitan by Spanish colonial authorities due to accusations of sedition and plotting a revolution. During his exile, Rizal won a lottery and used his winnings to purchase a large estate in Talisay, Dapitan.

Rizal dedicated himself to improving the community during his exile. Aside from the structures he built, he also practiced medicine to treat the poor for free, educated the locals, and engaged in farming.

The shrine is now a protected landscape and a popular tourist destination, offering insights into Rizal’s life and contributions during his exile.

The shrine features replicas of Rizal’s structures, his personal belongings, and exhibits about his life and works, offering visitors a glimpse into his time in Dapitan. The serene environment and historical significance make it a popular site for reflection and learning.

The area was initially declared a national park in 1940, designated a National Shrine in 1973, and later a protected landscape in 2000, recognizing its historical and cultural significance. The Rizal Shrine is now administered by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.