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College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila
Case Study on the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine
A Research Paper
Submitted to the College of Architecture,
Design, and the Built Environment
Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Mesa
Manila City, Manila
In Partial Fulfillment of the
Requirements for the Course
History of Architecture 4
By
Ginturo, Ma. Daniela A.
Guevarra, Shekinah B.
Magabo, Jose Benicio Q.
Oliva, John Mharlan O.
Reusora, John Clarence M.
BS ARCHI 2- 1
To
Ar. Jereca Mae Ilumin-Amata
March 2026
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila I. Introduction a. Name of Structure The Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine (See Fig. 1), also known as the House of History, is the birthplace of the first president of the Republic of the Philippines, Emilio Aguinaldo y Fami. The shrine was named to honor the place where the former home of the leading figure who gave the country its first independence previously stood. Remnants of the Aguinaldo Shrine, including the long-century-preserved artifacts and materials, serve as reminders of the historical and glorious days (Ulep, 2024). The structure stands as a legacy built during the era when the Philippines attained its freedom and identity, and of the man who made it possible. Figure 1. Exterior of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine Website Source: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b0/Gen._Emilio_Aguinaldo_Shrine.jpg
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila d. Year Constructed According to the narratives of Angelo Aguinaldo (2014), a descendant of Emilio Aguinaldo, the shrine was first the family home of the Aguinaldo family, which was built by his great-great-grandparents, Trinidad Valerio Famy and Carlos Jamir Aguinaldo, in 1845. The family mansion was reconstructed four years later, in 1849, using materials such as limestone, hardwood, and adobe. However, the structure that we see today is an architectural work of former General Emilio Aguinaldo, integrating sturdier materials and nationalistic themes. The functional shift of the structure ultimately resulted in a design that reflected a hybrid of the bahay na bato’s stylistic features and prevalent architectural styles during the 20th century (Portolés, 2026). e. Architectural Style Figure 3. Interior of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine Website Source: data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/4AAQSkZJRgABAQAAAQABAAD/2wCEAAkGBxMTEhUTExMWFhUXGBobGRcXGBsaH hgXHh0aGBsbGRgdHigiGBomHhcYITEhJikrLi4uGB8zODMtNygtLysBCgoKDg0OGhAQGzUlICUtLS0tLS0tLS0tLS0tL S0tLS0tLS0tLS0tL As previously mentioned, the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine incorporates a blend of architectural styles, displaying local features, such as the layout of the traditional bahay na bato , and international design principles, mainly from the interior of art nouveau and art deco movements (Portolés, 2026) and Spanish Colonial architecture (KGM Resorts, 2025). Portolés (2026) stated that the upper level of the structure functions as the living space, including areas such as the living room, bedrooms, and kitchen, like the layout of the bahay na bato during the 18th century. Moreover, the design also incorporates Art Deco and Art Nouveau interior adornments and furniture (See Fig. 3), most notably, the mesa altar, large dining table, Ah Tay bed, and hidden compartments. Meanwhile, the exterior of the museum showcases Spanish Colonial architecture influences manifested by the capiz shell windows (See Fig. 4), sliding panels, and hardwood materials (KGM Resorts, 2025).
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila f. Reason for choosing the building The researchers collectively decided to study the architectural and historical context of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine to have a deeper understanding of the location where the nation’s independence was declared. It piques the interest of the researchers about how the architectural style of the house of the first president of the First Republic of the Philippines contributed to his legacy. In addition to this, they seek to understand the influences that affected the overall design of the historic structure and how it consequently influenced the lives of its users. The study of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine attempts to comprehend the identity of Filipino architecture, rooted in the time it stood as its own. Figure 4. Capiz Shell Windows of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine Website Source: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAbzvjo8tXa_JKNy1I 40471sgopuAV8N2KVoj1lkA3_3kmet72vyrW_68h5ozLJL13kZapUx_CQYPTXKfif5N AFRvX8NSxT_8CI-hBFyQPDhyKvXaArfM3CbAltlWb
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila Beneath the balcony features the iconic smiling carabao that supports it (See Fig. 5), where the former president originally wanted to be buried (Aguinaldo, 2014). The carabao is a prominent figure in the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine, being embellished in both interior and exterior elements. Abeth Ocampo stated that Aguinaldo revered the animal’s duality of being tame and aggressive only when forced by circumstances (Prudente-Sta. Maria, 2026). The narratives of the carabaos attacking American armed forces, such as when a carabao General Lawton and his men, as they shouted to the Filipinos in April 1989 in a battle between Filipinos and Americans, is a testament to its character (Prudente-Sta. Maria, 2026). Fifty years after the Philippine revolution, President Emilio Aguinaldo designed and expanded his house, integrating American Colonial architecture (Prudente-Sta. Maria, 2026). This design shift is evident from the gabled-roof family wing, the spires on the tower, and the previously mentioned redesigned Independence Balcony, where the Philippine Independence was proclaimed. Moreover, during this timeline, Aguinaldo also adorned the interior with Art Deco and Art Nouveau embellishments and furniture, which were prevalent in the 20th century (Portolés, 2026). Nationalistic themes were also incorporated in its design: the sala which is adorned with emblematic symbols of the revolution, the multi-toned triangular sections on the floors presenting the patterns on the national flag, the different shades of wooden columns that separate the sala from the dining room which invoke the colors of the flag, and several paintings of Aguinaldo’s life during the American era (Prudente-Sta. Maria, 2026). Nevertheless, the headliner of the dining room is the ceiling relief of the Philippines, where Cavite was painted red to highlight its integral role in the revolution. Prudente-Sta. Figure 5. Smiling Carabo Beneath the Balcony of Independence Website Source: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlQ40AUz- SfBYjGcFXSOHROqr7AnZbhMQCMRouEmtPKzX8r- rRtH5uMbQTa4F1MWtLk9dCZC8a9HfoyvNZNdn7nA1vFsDIvccBtMaNJLc- drLee1lxQMESii42RMO
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila Maria (2026) states that Aguinaldo adorned the house with symbols of the revolutionary period so that it would be eternally remembered and celebrated. On June 12, 1963, Aguinaldo bequeathed the house and property to the government, delegating that it “to perpetuate the spirit of the Revolution of 1896… to conserve and vivify the nationalism that moved our country to rise in arms” (Prudente-Sta. Maria, 2026). On February 6, 1964, Emilio Aguinaldo y Fami died of coronary thrombosis and was buried in the gardens of his childhood home (The Kahimyang Project, 2013). In June of 1964, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) declared the mansion a National Shrine. The Aguinaldo Mansion is the living proof of Emilio Aguinaldo’s architectural interest, devotion to the Philippine revolution, and dedication to serving the Filipino people, forever establishing a great man’s legacy. Figure 6. Tomb of Emilio Aguinaldo Website Source: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/dc/E milio_Aguinaldo_Tomb%2C_Kawit%2C_Cavite.jpg
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila leading to deforestation and the rise of natural waterways (Alcid, 2009). This dilemma is further amplified by the clogging of canals and improper waste management. The design of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine draws inspiration from the structural layout of the bahay na bato, also known as arquitectura mestiza (Prudente-Sta. Maria, 2026). Therefore, its lower level serves as a functional space while the living zones rest on the upper level, safe from water intrusion. However, the structure’s main structural composition primarily consists of wood and stone in addition to numerous decorative moldings and adornments, making it vulnerable to deterioration. For this reason, the estimated annual maintenance cost of the Aguinaldo Shrine amounts to an estimated budget of two million pesos (Alcid, 2009). As materials deteriorated from 1983 to 1998, the structure underwent several renovations and reconstructions. With increasing concerns about urbanization and the geographical location of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine, together with its material composition, the cycle of restoration will continue; however, its bahay na bato layout mitigates the severity of the issue.
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila IV. Geological Factors Belonging to a coastal area, the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine is located in the municipality of Kawit, which is known to be one of the lowland areas in the city of Cavite. The land’s slope is almost flat with a low ground elevation of zero to two meters. (Martinez, n.d.). Additionally, as of Evaristo (n.d.), the town itself is established near a large body of water which is also near the shrine. (See Fig. 9 ). Despite it sitting at a low land level from the waters, the risk of flooding in the area is low. Figure 9. Marulas River. Website Source: https://share.google/IY7pmH8vwWSWqvDRf a. Materials Used Aside from its rich history and background, the shrine is also known for the traditional materials used in its construction. Nipa and wood were originally used in the structure before it was renovated and extended. The Spanish and Filipino styles of architecture were also huge influences on the shrine, particularly the bahay-na-bato style of Filipino structures, and the Spanish Colonial architecture. This led to the use of materials such as various Philippine hardwoods which were utilized for a sturdier interior, as well as windows made from capiz shells which were added when it was renovated for a more sturdy and durable structure. (KGM Resorts, 2025)
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila d. Site Orientation The Aguinaldo Shrine is oriented in the direction of the north (See Fig. 10 ). The main house itself is oriented on the west side, with the family wing positioned to the east. Sitting on low land with a flat ground elevation, sunlight comes in during mornings from the right side of the structure, ending on the left when the sun sets. This results in less sun exposure in front of the shrine, but still allowing natural light inside the structure through the windows. Additionally, the shrine’s front facade faces the Camino Real Road and a park. A body of water, specifically the Marulas River, is also in proximity to the site. (Nelvis, n.d.) Figure 10. Satellite view of Aguinaldo Shrine. Website source: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VqqjeofyaQTfE3Xu
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila VI. Social Structure Known for its historic background, the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine reflects the independence that was gained by the Filipinos which impacts the values of the country and the Filipino history. As stated by KGM Resorts (2025), the shrine became a symbol of revolution not only because it was the ancestral home of General Emilio Aguinaldo, but also due to the historic act of the Philippine flag being raised and waved in the building. Due to this, the shrine became not only a symbol, but also a historical structure that shaped the citizen’s national identity, leadership, and independence. It became a home that anyone could visit to learn and reminisce about the unity that the Filipinos had to overcome struggles to be free. The Shrine continues to have an impact on shaping our society, bringing hope, unity, and resilience to each and every one, even to this day. VII. Religion The prevalent religion during the time of construction of Aguinaldo's house is Christianism, some referred to it as Catholicism, as it was under the Spanish colonization. Resulting in ornaments, furniture, pillars, and doorways to have various rococo, baroque, and Gothic features (Aplaon, 2019). VIII. Construction Technology a. Materiality Looking back in the year 1845, the house was primarily built of nipa-and- thatch material, reconstructed with various Philippine hardwood four years after, with added tower and the symbolic balcony. From nipa-and-wood humble beginnings, the mansion was absolutely upgraded through major renovations. Surprisingly, the construction and planning of this house can be considered effective and smart. See, various parts of Aguinaldo's house contain secret passageways along with sliding furniture to conceal them. With the grand hall being the most important area, it is where the General and state officials made meetings and decisions. Made with a mosaic of wooden trapezoids and waxed-and-polished mosaic flags, these floor patterns extend all the way to the dining room's pillars.
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila Figure 13. Secret compartments hidden in wood benches. Website source: https://www.lakadpilipinas.com/2012/08/cavite-aguinaldo-shrine-and-park-at.html
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila
IX. Conclusion
The Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, or what is sometimes referred to as the House of History, is where the first president of the Republic of the Philippines resided. He himself, Emilio Aguinaldo y Fami, is also buried in the marble tomb on the grounds of the very mansion. First constructed in 184 5 , the building begins from a humble nipa-and thatch materials (Portolés, 2026) but signifies the elite status of the Aguinaldos as it was located adjacent to the main road network of the town, Camilo Real. Around four years after, it was then reconstructed using limestone, hardwood, and adobe. One can say that the overall structure is composed of hybrid bahay na bato stylistic features, art nouveau, and art deco. Several factors are present in shaping today’s Aguinaldo Shrine: history, geographical, geological, climate, social structure, and religion. Bahay na bato stylistic features , international movements such as art nouveau, and art deco, which were the prevalent themes back then, are incorporated in the mansion. Integrating American Colonial architecture was made fifty years after the Philippine revolution. Kawit, Cavite is classified as a coastal municipality that may be vulnerable to flooding, therefore putting the living zones on the upper level protects it from water intrusion while the lower level serves as a functional area. Traditional materials such as nipa, Philippine hardwood, and capiz shells are used in constructing the mansion (KGM Resorts, 2025). Humid and high temperatures are often felt during the dry season, February to April, in the area as stated by the Official Website of Cavite City (n.d.). This leads to various architectural solutions integrated within the structure, e.g. cross ventilation, fenestrations, insulations, and a good site orientation. The shrine reflects the independence and pride of the Filipinos, reminding the country of our courageous history. Ornaments, furniture, pillar, and doorways showcase several rococo, baroque, and Gothic features (Aplaon,
- as the prevalent religion during its construction is Christianism. The mansion surprisingly has several secret passageways and furniture with secret compartments which are typically observed in houses of the elites, or the principalias. The overall mansion mirrors Emilio Aguinaldo’s life and his passion for the independence of his country. It also symbols the revolutionary history of the Filipinos against the colonizers. In architecture, the Aguinaldo shrine becomes one of the most notable structures not just because of its façade and landscape, but because it carries the sorrow turned freedom of Aguinaldo and his countrymen against the Spaniards.
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila National Historical Institute. (2026). Philippine History -- Aguinaldo Shrine. Msc.edu.ph. https://www.msc.edu.ph/centennial/shrine.html Nelvis, K. (n.d.). Aguinaldo Shrine: A National Landmark | PDF | Philippines. Scribd. Retrieved March 13, 2026, from https://www.scribd.com/document/788220192/Aguinaldo-Shrine Official Website of Cavite City. (2017). Official Website Of Cavite City - Historical Background. Cavitecity.gov.ph. http://cavitecity.gov.ph/index.php/about-lgu/historical-background Official Website of Cavite City. (n.d.). Official Website Of Cavite City - Demography. Official Website Of Cavite City - HOME. Retrieved March 13, 2026, from http://www.cavitecity.gov.ph/index.php/about-lgu/demography Portolés, J. B. (2026). Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo, the Philippines | ASEF culture360. ASEF Culture360. https://culture360.org/resources/museo-ni-emilio-aguinaldo-the-philippines/ Prudente-Sta. Maria, F. (2026). Aguinaldo Shrine – Traveler on Foot. Traveler on Foot. https://traveleronfoot.wordpress.com/tag/aguinaldo-shrine/ Roque, A. (n.d.). Aguinaldo Shrine: History | PDF | Corregidor | Memorial. Scribd. https://www.scribd.com/document/506495987/shrine Sangoyo, C. (2012, August 22). CAVITE | Aguinaldo Shrine and Freedom Park at Kawit. LAKAD PILIPINAS. Retrieved March 12, 2026, from https://www.lakadpilipinas.com/2012/08/cavite- aguinaldo-shrine-and-park-at.html Sedigo, N., & Creencia, G. (2009). MAPPING AND CHARACTERIZATION OF IMUS RIVER WATERSHED USING GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM AND REMOTE SENSING TECHNOLOGY Editor: Thomas Bell Formatter: John Castillo Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA. https://pemsea.org/sites/default/files/2024- 06/ASEANO%20CvSU%20Subproject%201.pdf Tejero, C. (2015, August 31). Aguinaldo Shrine–A house of many secrets. LIFESTYLE.INQ. Retrieved March 12, 2026, from https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/205064/aguinaldo-shrine-a- house-of-many-secrets/
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment Manila City, Metro Manila The Kahimyang Project. (2013, February). Emilio Aguinaldo Died at the Veterans Memorial Hospital. The Kahimyang Project. https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1434/february- 6 - 1964 - general-emilio-aguinaldo-died-at-the-veterans-memorial-hospital Ulep, A. N. (2024, June 12). Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit: Unfolding Philippine History - GoodNewsPilipinas.com. GoodNewsPilipinas.com. https://goodnewspilipinas.com/aguinaldo- shrine-in-kawit-unfolding-philippine-history/ Ulep, A. N. (2024, June 12). Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit: Unfolding Philippine History. GoodNewsPilipinas.com. Retrieved March 13, 2026, from https://goodnewspilipinas.com/aguinaldo-shrine-in-kawit-unfolding-philippine-history/ Weather Spark. (n.d.). Climate and Average Weather Year Round in General Emilio Aguinaldo. Weather Spark. Retrieved March 13, 2026, from https://weatherspark.com/y/134629/Average-Weather- in-General-Emilio-Aguinaldo-Philippines-Year-Round
