LUNETA : A destination, not a landmark-1

Perhaps one of the most enduring (and endearing) memories we have of childhood is that one lazy afternoon we spent at Rizal Park with our families.

Who does not remember a time when we ran barefoot or flew kites on the wide grassy area in front of the Quirino grandstand, stared curiously at the stoic guards at the Rizal monument, had a picnic with our parents in the one of the park’s gardens, or watched in awe as the sinking sun of Manila Bay set the sky on fire?

Even today, Rizal Park – or Luneta as it is known to many – has not lost its appeal, particularly to people who need a respite from their fast-paced lifestyles.

The park’s popularity could be due to its being the only green spot in the city. It is one of the last places in Manila where you could have fresh air and a tranquil ambience.

Most importantly, the park is important because of its historical value: It is the execution site and final resting place of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

If you find yourself with a free day at your disposal, and the malls don’t exactly appeal to you as a place where you could relax, or the provinces seem too far away, I suggest a walking tour of Rizal Park. Aside from the numerous historical and natural attractions, you get to burn calories at the same time!

However, since the Park is so vast and there are many things to see, I suggest more than just a single visit to appreciate all that Luneta has to offer. During my own walking tour, I was only able to visit just some of the attractions which I feel truly represent the place.

What’s in a name?

In the early 19th century, during the Spanish rule, Intramuros was the social and economic hub of Manila. That was where city’s elite class resided. To further reinforce the stronghold, an area just south of the walls was cleared to prevent sneak attacks from restless natives. The area had the shape of a small moon or “lunette,” hence its name Luneta.

In 1913, the park was renamed as a dedication to Dr. Jose Rizal.

The Eastern section

Perhaps the best place to start the walking tour is at the park’s eastern section, beginning at Taft Avenue. From there you could work your way down to the middle section, then all the way to Quirino Grandstand and finally, end the journey at Manila Bay.

Since the park is so wide, the walk could take the whole afternoon. I advise you to keep to a leisurely pace and enjoy the sights along the way.

The first things that would greet you as you enter the park are the Halamanang Pilipino (Philippine Garden), a relief map of the Philippines and the Children’s Playground.

Sampaguitas, jasmines, dama de noche and other flowers and plants which thrive in the Philippines are the main attractions at the Halamanang Pilipino. Across the garden is a colorful, scaled topographical representation of the country set afloat in a lagoon. (This is best seen when you are riding in the Light Rail Transit.)

At the other end is the Children’s Playground which has a variety of swings, giant slides, and see-saws presented in interesting shapes. A portion of the playground that I particularly enjoyed as a child was the one with the volcanoes and stone dinosaurs. (Its concept came first, way beyond Jurassic Park).

Walking down the park takes you to the Skating Rink. Standing on opposite sides of that area is the Department of Tourism and the National Museum. The twin buildings are rendered in classical Greek-architecture and are favorite spots for picture taking.

Just past the buildings and the Bisig marker, is Maria Orosa which separates the eastern and central portions of the park.

Before crossing the street, you might want to check out the Orchidarium, a mini park focused on orchids but with other attractions typical in a garden.