Arch of the Centuries University of Santo Tomas - Image 1
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Arch of the Centuries University of Santo Tomas

4.7
·61 reviews·Manila, Philippines

A venerable baroque arch, erected in 1680 and moved in 1954, symbolizing UST's rich history and student milestones.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
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Arch of the Centuries University of Santo Tomas - Image 1

Arch of the Centuries University of Santo Tomas

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A venerable baroque arch, erected in 1680 and moved in 1954, symbolizing UST's rich history and student milestones.

4.7
(61 reviews)

"The landmark at UST is one of the most memorable sights on campus, evoking strong memories of university days."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Great spot for photography, capture its ancient glory and symbolic meaning. :camerawithflash:

🎓 Student Milestone

Passing through marks important student milestones, from freshman welcome to graduation. :graduation_cap:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 61 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Arch Itself

The Arch Itself

University of Santo Tomas Campus

A venerable baroque arch, a testament to UST's resilience and rich history. A must-see for its architectural beauty and symbolic meaning.

Freshman Welcome Walk

Freshman Welcome Walk

Arch of the Centuries Entrance

Witness the vibrant tradition of freshmen entering the campus through the arch, marking the start of their academic journey.

Graduation Exits

Graduation Exits

Arch of the Centuries Exit

See graduating students pass through the arch, symbolizing the culmination of their studies and their transition to new beginnings.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Arch of the Centuries is a popular spot, especially during student events like the Welcome Walk. To avoid crowds and capture the best photos, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

A Symbol of Tradition

This iconic arch is more than just a landmark; it's a significant symbol for University of Santo Tomas students. Passing through it marks important milestones, from freshman welcomes to graduations. Understand its cultural importance for a richer experience.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Beautiful lighting for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
During student events
Why
Experience vibrant traditions
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

FINALLY EXITED THE SYMBOLIC ARCH OF THE CENTURIES. I will always be grateful kahit minsan ang hirap mong mahalin, ust! 🫶🏻✨ #ustbaccmass2023 #classof2023 #fyp #ust #thomasian
@rrylwdc
93.5K likes • 628.3K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Great spot for photography, capture its ancient glory and symbolic meaning. :camerawithflash:

🎓 Student Milestone

Passing through marks important student milestones, from freshman welcome to graduation. :graduation_cap:

Thomasian Freshies have entered the Arch of the Centuries! 🐯 Look at how our freshies from different colleges flex their creative props and witty themes as they roar their way in through the Arch of the Centuries. Welcome to your new home, Tigers! #ThomasianWelcomeWalk2024 #OnlyOnTigerTV #ust #uste #ustmanila #fyp
@ustigertv
38.8K likes • 274.7K views
University of Santo Tomas - A visit to remember. Part 2. The visit evokes a strong sense of nostalgia. Proud to be a Tomasino . Back in 2010- UST sites declared as National Cultural Treasures namely the Main Building, Central Seminary, the Arch of the Centuries, and UST’s open spaces . The University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila, established in 1611, is one of the oldest universities in Asia a...
emikosan1
0 likes • 132 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Campus

The arch is a gateway to exploring the historic UST campus. 🚶

📅 Check Event Schedules

Be aware of student events like Welcome Walk to witness traditions or avoid crowds. 📅

On August 5, 2024, the University of Santo Tomas welcomed its newest batch of Thomasian freshmen with the cherished tradition of the Thomasian Welcome Walk and ROARientation. ✨ As they passed through the historic Arch of the Centuries, they all finally marked the beginning of their transformative journey through the heart of UST CTHM. This year, the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management...
ustcthmsc
188 likes • 4.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Great spot for photography, capture its ancient glory and symbolic meaning. :camerawithflash:

🎓 Student Milestone

Passing through marks important student milestones, from freshman welcome to graduation. :graduation_cap:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Campus

The arch is a gateway to exploring the historic UST campus. 🚶

📅 Check Event Schedules

Be aware of student events like Welcome Walk to witness traditions or avoid crowds. 📅

What Travellers Say

4.7
(61 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Arch of the Centuries as a memorable and iconic landmark at UST, deeply connected to student life and traditions. It evokes strong feelings of nostalgia and pride, serving as a beautiful backdrop for photography and a symbol of the university's rich history and resilience.

"The landmark at UST is one of the most memorable sights on campus. Every freshman passes through it, making it a special part of student life. Walking through it always brings back strong memories of university days—moments filled with excitement, friendships, and the unique spirit of UST. The structure itself carries so much history and stands as a reminder of the traditions that shape the university experience."

Wesley Wong

"Brings back memories of my college life and life of centuries... Ohh .."

Annie “D Adventure of Sgt Banang” Luna

"Good spot for photography, and a city icon in Manila. 😍"

Christian Angelo Mapa

What People Like

Symbolic significance
Nostalgic memories
Great for photography

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Arch of the Centuries is located within the University of Santo Tomas campus in Manila. You can reach it via public transportation like jeepneys or buses heading towards España Boulevard. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, the University of Santo Tomas campus, where the Arch of the Centuries is located, is well-served by various public transportation routes, including jeepneys and buses that ply España Boulevard. Reddit

For first-time visitors, using a ride-sharing app or taxi can be the most straightforward way to get directly to the UST campus. Alternatively, you can take a jeepney or bus along España Boulevard and ask the driver to drop you off at UST. Reddit

While the Arch itself is a pedestrian landmark, the UST campus has parking areas. However, it's often easier to use public transport or ride-sharing services due to potential traffic and parking availability. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, it might be walkable from other parts of Manila. However, it's a significant landmark within the UST campus, so once you reach the university, you'll likely walk a short distance to the arch. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Arch of the Centuries is an outdoor landmark on the University of Santo Tomas campus and does not require an entrance ticket for viewing from the outside. Instagram

As it's an outdoor landmark on a university campus, there are no strict visiting hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours when the campus is generally accessible and safe. Instagram

There is no admission fee to see or take photos with the Arch of the Centuries. It's a freely accessible landmark for visitors. Instagram

Yes, visitors can enter the UST campus to see the Arch of the Centuries. However, be mindful of campus rules and regulations, especially during academic hours or events. TikTok

While generally accessible, it's advisable to be respectful of the university environment. Avoid disruptive behavior, especially during classes or official events. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography. The golden hour before sunset provides a warm, beautiful glow. Reddit

Try capturing the arch from a distance to include more of the campus, or get up close to highlight its intricate details. The area in front of the arch is popular for full-body shots. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos during student events, but be mindful of the participants and avoid obstructing their activities. It's a great opportunity to capture vibrant traditions. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses. It's best to check UST's specific policies regarding drone operation before flying one. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the entire arch and its surroundings. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

Erected in 1680, the Arch of the Centuries is a venerable baroque arch that was moved to its current location in 1954. It's a symbol of UST's long history and resilience. Instagram

The Arch of the Centuries was originally erected in 1680. Instagram

It's a symbolic gateway for students, marking significant milestones like the Freshman Welcome Walk and graduations, evoking nostalgia and pride. TikTokInstagram

Yes, along with the Main Building and Central Seminary, the Arch of the Centuries was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2010. Instagram

It represents the rich history, traditions, and the transformative journey of students at the University of Santo Tomas. Instagram

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