Rizal Park

Overview

Rizal Park — commonly known as Luneta — is a 58-hectare urban park in the heart of Manila, dedicated to the country's national hero José Rizal. It stretches from the Rizal Monument on the west to the Department of Finance on the east, flanked by the National Museum complex and the Manila Hotel.

Highlights

• Rizal Monument: An obelisk guarded around the clock by sentries, marking the spot where Rizal was executed by firing squad on December 30, 1896.
• Chinese & Japanese Gardens: Landscaped pocket gardens reflecting Asian horticultural traditions, each with ponds and arched bridges.
• Dancing Fountain & Light Show: The park's musical fountain puts on a free nightly show of choreographed water, light, and music.

History

Originally called Bagumbayan, the park was central to multiple defining moments in Philippine history: Rizal's execution in 1896, the Philippine Declaration of Independence ceremony in 1946, and the massive rallies of the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visit at sunset to catch the flag-lowering ceremony and the start of the fountain light show.
• Tip 2: The park is free to enter; the Chinese Garden has a small entry fee.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.