Aside from the aesthetic view, the story behind this amazing place, The Temple of Leah, is much more impressive, and I am glad to narrate it with my experience in this blog.
Located in Cebu City, The Temple of Leah can be visited by riding a Jeepney or hiring a van downtown. From the gate, walking until you reach the central spot will take a few minutes. Aside from the fact that it's a great exercise, it is also a great chance to enjoy the view of the wall toward the entrance since it is an indoor attraction that brings a blended charm of nature and architecture.
Perspective from a first-time tourist
Honestly, as someone who came to Cebu for the first time, I really did some research before going to this place. That is why when we got the chance to explore the whole area after the event we joined in, this was one of the places on top of the list.
When we were finally there, I did not miss this one-in-a-million opportunity to explore it. For the information of everyone reading it, there is an entrance fee, which varies differently for adults, minors, and the like. If I remember correctly, we paid 100 pesos each (around $2). It was such a reasonable price in exchange for a chance to witness a historic site that someone can be proud of visiting.
While entering, I am really observing. Each foundation has a sculpture in it, making the ambiance really seem to be in Greece or something like a touch of Greek Mythology. They were painted white, and on top of the sculptures were sphere bulbs that looked almost perfectly as they blended well in the sky, more so when the lights were open. Take this photo, which I took, for example.
By the way, did you know that The Temple of Leah was built by Teodorico Soriano Adarna as a testament to his pure love for her wife, Leah Albino-Adarna?
This magnificent structure was indeed a symbol of endless love even after death. By the way, the two are the grandparents of Ellen Adarna, a famous individual who made a name in the showbiz industry in the Philippines.
Inside the temple was a golden statue of Leah, seizing Leah's elegance and poise and strikingly portraying her enduring legacy. The lighting and details looked perfectly laid out, more so the architectural design that really made everyone in awe incluing me. During the time we visit there, an old man is also playing piano, making the moment really dramatic and one of a kind.
As we walked through the center, we had a full view of the temple. It felt magical since we got there at 5:00 in the afternoon, where the sun flaunted in the sky a golden hue as it set down.
From these shots:
To these shots:
Well, I just can't help but really smile. For a moment, I felt like I was a photographer enjoying the moment of taking photos that no one can judge.
A panoramic view of Cebu City's landscape can be enjoyed since it is elevated. Truly, it is an ideal spot and what I call a mesmerizing spot to immerse oneself in love while enjoying a breathtaking view of the city below.
On the other hand, time's running, so we really made the most of it. In almost every corner of the place, we have a picture of ourselves. Be it a selfie, groufie, wacky post, or model-like post, we found ourselves enjoying the dramatic moment.
Of all the pictures taken, the following made me really smile the greatest. Not because I looked good at it but because it felt magical; I am just simply speechless.
Something like: Malayo pa, pero malayo an rin...
How I wish we could spend more time there, but since the time given to explore the place had already lapsed, we bid goodbye, however, with genuine happiness in our hearts.
This is not, for sure, the last time I visit this place. The next time around, I will have my whole family experience what I had and for them to enjoy also such a fantastic attraction that truly entails love.
This place genuinely symbolizes the idea that we can eternalize the memories of those close to our hearts through acts of pure and everlasting love.
If you plan to visit Cebu City soon, I recommend this amazing attraction. That's all for now, have a great day ahead!
All photos are mine.