Welcome Arc and Sealed Door

This welcome arc in Intramuros brought me memories of fiestas in Bicol. We had these bamboo arcs marking the point where the banderitas begin. Even in Salubong during Easter, the angelitas descend from an arc made of bamboos and coconut lumber. This one near the Palacio del Gobernador is pretty elaborate--decorated not only with bamboo grids but also cages, nipa fans, painted plywood, and fishnet. I think the electric wires added something too.

While visitors are welcomed by the Palacio, tourists are barred from entering this ruined building in Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier, Fort Santiago. As if sealing it with concrete isn't enough, a stray MMDA No Parking sign was also guarding the brick portal

Brick Walls and Wooden Windows

Windows on the brick walls of Fort Santiago's Almacenes Reales (Royal Warehouse) which stored goods from the galleons docked at the Pasig River. Must have been rat heaven.

One of only four windows in the very small Our Lady of Guadalupe chapel inside the Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier.