First United Building

Manila


Not only is this one of Manila's finest pieces of surviving pre-WWII art deco, but it's also the centrepiece of the Escolta St revival. Inside are galleries, cafes, co-laboratories, artist collectives, the First United Community Museum and the HUB Make Lab. Head up the fantastic spiral staircase to observe photos of old Manila lining the corridors of the 3rd floor.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Manila attractions

1. First United Community Museum

Opened in 2015, this modest museum is dedicated to Sy Lian Teng (1904–2004), a self-made Chinese tycoon whose family still owns the First United Building…

2. Arch of Goodwill

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One of several ornate arches within Chinatown that distinguish the neighbourhood from its surrounds.

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In the historic, beaux-arts Calvo Building (1938), this little museum houses a treasure trove of pre-WWII photographs and memorabilia. Of particular…

4. Filipino-Chinese Friendship Arch

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Ornate arch marking the entrance to Chinatown when coming over the Jones Bridge. Do not confuse it with the gargantuan new (2015) Chinatown Arch, which is…

5. Plaza Miranda

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6. Quiapo Church

0.28 MILES

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7. Metropolitan Theater

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8. Bahay Nakpil-Bautista

0.34 MILES

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