Arch of the Centuries University of Santo Tomas
A venerable baroque arch, erected in 1680 and moved in 1954, symbolizing UST's rich history and student milestones.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Arch of the Centuries University of Santo Tomas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A venerable baroque arch, erected in 1680 and moved in 1954, symbolizing UST's rich history and student milestones.
"The landmark at UST is one of the most memorable sights on campus, evoking strong memories of university days."
📸 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
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
Arch of the Centuries Exit
See graduating students pass through the arch, symbolizing the culmination of their studies and their transition to new beginnings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
A Symbol of Tradition
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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. :walking:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Be aware of student events like Welcome Walk to witness traditions or avoid crowds. :calendar:
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. :walking:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Be aware of student events like Welcome Walk to witness traditions or avoid crowds. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There is no admission fee to see or take photos with the Arch of the Centuries. It's a freely accessible landmark for visitors.
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.
While generally accessible, it's advisable to be respectful of the university environment. Avoid disruptive behavior, especially during classes or official events.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography. The golden hour before sunset provides a warm, beautiful glow.
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.
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.
Drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses. It's best to check UST's specific policies regarding drone operation before flying one.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the entire arch and its surroundings. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
The Arch of the Centuries was originally erected in 1680.
It's a symbolic gateway for students, marking significant milestones like the Freshman Welcome Walk and graduations, evoking nostalgia and pride.
Yes, along with the Main Building and Central Seminary, the Arch of the Centuries was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2010.
It represents the rich history, traditions, and the transformative journey of students at the University of Santo Tomas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging for children, you could turn it into a mini-scavenger hunt for architectural details on the arch or discuss the symbolism of passing through a significant gateway. It's a good opportunity to introduce them to a piece of Philippine history and the concept of university life in a tangible way.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
If you're visiting during student events like the Welcome Walk or graduation, you'll have opportunities to capture dynamic shots of students interacting with the arch.
+1 Remember to be respectful of the students and their ceremonies while you capture these moments. The arch also serves as a beautiful backdrop for portraits, adding a touch of historical gravitas to your photos. 🎓 Alumni and Nostalgia Seekers
Many alumni return to the arch to take photos, often recreating poses from their student days or simply to feel that connection to their alma mater again. It serves as a tangible link to their formative years and a reminder of the enduring legacy of the University of Santo Tomas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arch of the Centuries: A Symbol of UST's Legacy
For generations of Thomasians, passing through the Arch of the Centuries marks pivotal moments in their academic lives. It's the iconic gateway for freshmen during the Welcome Walk, symbolizing their entry into a new chapter of learning and growth.
Conversely, it's also the path they exit upon graduation, signifying the culmination of their university journey and their transition into the professional world. +1 This dual symbolism imbues the arch with profound emotional resonance for students and alumni alike, evoking memories of excitement, friendships, and the unique spirit of UST. Beyond its role in student rites of passage, the Arch of the Centuries is a beloved photography spot and a recognizable landmark in Manila.
Experiencing the Arch: Traditions and Student Life
On the other end of the academic spectrum, the Arch also signifies the triumphant exit of graduating students. Seeing thousands of seniors pass through the arch on their graduation day is a poignant moment, symbolizing the end of an era and the start of new adventures.
+1 This tradition evokes strong feelings of nostalgia and pride, as students reflect on their college life, friendships, and the lessons learned within the university's walls. For many, the Arch is a constant reminder of their time at UST, a place where memories were made and futures were shaped. It's a landmark that encapsulates the essence of the Thomasian experience – a blend of academic rigor, cherished traditions, and a strong sense of community.
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