Simala Shrine

In Sibonga, Cebu, the Simala Shrine, or The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, draws visitors nationwide, making it a beloved religious destination.

Founded in 1997 by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration, it’s a place where faith and prayer converge, especially for those seeking blessings from the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Upon entering, a welcoming “We Love Mama Mary” inscription crafted from grass greets every visitor. The interior is awe-inspiring, with terraces, columns, and heartfelt letters from those claiming healing through Mary’s intercession.

Central to the shrine is an altar adorned with saints and a tearful, miraculous image of the Virgin Mary, reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel’s artistry.

A quiet corner allows visitors to write letters to Mary adjacent to a prayer room with a revered replica of her miraculous image. The site also houses a museum showcasing various depictions of the Virgin Mary and her attire during her miraculous weeping.

The church includes a souvenir shop with religious items and a particular area for lighting candles, each color representing different prayers or wishes.

The Simala Shrine is more than a place of worship; it’s a heartfelt testament to the love and miracles attributed to Mama Mary. This is one of the best Cebu tourist spots in Cebu.

Entrance Fee:

Free

Simala Church Opening Hours:

8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and there is a mass every 8:00 AM.

How To Get There:

To get to Simala Shrine from Cebu City:

1. Head to the South Bus Terminal: Look for buses going to Sibonga. These buses frequently travel the route and are easily accessible.

2. Board a Bus to Sibonga: Inform the conductor that you’re visiting the Simala Shrine. They’ll know the best stop to alight, usually near the shrine’s entrance.

3. Final Leg: Once you’ve reached the drop-off point in Sibonga, you can take a short walk or a local tricycle directly to the shrine.

4. Cebu Tour Package: Discover Cebu’s popular tourist spots with Travel Cebu’s personalized tours. One of their most popular tours is the Simala Shrine Day Tour.

Best Time To Visit:

For an optimal visit to Simala Shrine, go during its open hours, 8 AM to 6 PM, to fully experience this sacred site dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Frequently Ask Questions:

What is Simala Shrine known for?

Simala Church in Cebu, Philippines, is where faith, miracles, and stunning architecture come together. Here’s what it’s most famous for:

• Miraculous Mama Mary: The shrine’s main attraction is the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, believed by many to have shed tears. Devotees from all over the country come to pray for healing, forgiveness, and blessings, earning the shrine the nickname “Miraculous Mama Mary Church.”

• Castle-like Beauty: You’ll be amazed by Simala Shrine’s magnificent castle-like design – a truly unique sight in the Philippines. The vast grounds and beautiful landscaping only add to its charm.

• Marian Monks: The shrine was built and is cared for by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration. Their dedication to prayer and the upkeep of this sacred place testifies to their faith.

• Place of Prayer and Reflection: Simala Shrine offers a space for everyone – from deeply religious pilgrims to those seeking peace and contemplation. You’ll find areas to light candles, a prayer room to write letters to the Virgin Mary, and even a museum showcasing religious artifacts.

What is the dress code for the Simala Shrine?

At Simala Shrine, visitors are asked to dress modestly to honor the site’s sacredness, which is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

When dressing appropriately, choose clothing that covers both the shoulders and knees. Avoid sleeveless tops, short skirts, and cropped tops.

The Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration encourage this respectful attire to maintain the shrine’s atmosphere of reverence and devotion.

Why should we visit Simala church?

Imagine a place where faith, breathtaking architecture, and stories of miracles come together.

Simala Church, also known as the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, is a famous shrine where visitors come to pray before the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

It is believed that the image has shed tears. People come seeking Mama Mary’s healing touch, asking for forgiveness, or simply giving thanks for the blessings received.

But even if you’re not particularly religious, Simala Shrine’s beauty will leave you in awe. The castle-like church feels like a slice of Europe in the Philippines.

You can go to the church and light candles to express your hopes and prayers. Additionally, there is a prayer room where you can write a sincere letter to the Virgin Mary.

The on-site museum reveals the shrine’s history and showcases the devotion of Marian Monks. You might even find a souvenir like a rosary or a picture of Mama Mary to take home with you.

Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, architectural wonders, or a unique cultural experience, Simala Church is a place unlike any other.

What to do in Simala shrine?

Offer Prayers and Light Candles

The heart of Simala Shrine is devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Offer a prayer before the miraculous image of Mama Mary, and light a candle representing your intentions – perhaps hope (red), healing (orange), or forgiveness (yellow).

Write a Letter to Mama Mary

Find a quiet spot to write a heartfelt letter to the Virgin Mary. Express your worries and gratitude, or connect with your spirituality.

Explore the Grounds & Admire the Architecture

Stroll through the magnificent grounds of Simala Shrine and take in its castle-like beauty. The details, reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel, might inspire you.

Visit the Museum

The on-site museum offers insights into the shrine’s history and the Marian Monks. Visitors can discover relics and Marian statues and learn about miraculous events like the Virgin Mary shedding tears.

Reflect and Recharge

Simala Shrine is a place of peace and contemplation. Spend some time at the prayer stations, seeking guidance or simply enjoying the serenity of the uphill area.

Shop for Souvenirs

The souvenir store offers prayer guides, rosaries, and various religious items. You might even find mementos like pictures of Mama Mary to bring home a piece of the shrine’s blessings.