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Santa Catalina Parish Church / Arayat Church of Arayat Pampanga

May 7, 2025May 17, 2025 adminbdmc 0 Comments a pilgrimage to pampanga, arayat, arayat church, churches in pampanga, old churches in pampanga, pampanga, religion, santa catalina parish church, santa catalina parish church arayat, santa catalina parish church pampanga, travel

After witnessing the beauty of the Betis Church in Guagua (Check: Santiago Apostol Parish / Betis Church), we had a lengthy drive going to the town of Arayat. Dedicated under the patronage of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the Arayat Church was built in 1753.

Arayat is one of the oldest towns in Pampanga but there are multiple theories surrounding its origin. Some theories suggest that the term Arayat is derived from the word “dayat” or “dayatan” which means irrigation of rice lands during the dry season in Kapampangan. However, some theories state that the term came from another native word “arayat” which means “to the east” where the place is located with its beautiful mountain called Bunduk Alaya or eastern mountain. The term Arayat both as a settlement and a mountain emerged from the term alaya when the Spaniards first came to the Philippines in the 16th century. Mt. Arayat became a popular and majestic landmark also called Mt. Sinukuan after a Kapampangan legendary god by the name of Aring Sinukuan.

There are also historian records suggesting that the town’s name came from an encomendero named Fernando de Arayat who came from a certain Arayat village in Spain and eventually settled in the town. There is another theory claiming that the city was founded by prince Balatagas of the Madjaphit empire. While there is no specific date on when the town was established, it is clear that Arayat is one of the towns in Pampanga which has thrived between the 14th and 16th centuries ahead of the Spanish conquest.

The church was named in honor of Santa Catalina de Alejandria, a virgin martyr who was put to death by ancient pagan rulers because she refused to give up her Christianity.

The exterior of Arayat Church is a striking example of Renaissance-style architecture. It has a simple facade characterized by a multi-level design featuring a frontal arcade on the second level.

The pediment showcases a blind pointed archway that frames a small semicircular arched window, topped by a superimposed gabled plane. An image of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the church’s patron saint, is prominently displayed at the portico

The bell tower, originally featuring chamfered corners and a domical roof, has been modified over time and now exhibits intersecting gable roofs. T

While the original stone façade has been covered with cement and painted in off-white and grayish tones, the structure retains its historical charm and continues to be a significant architectural and cultural landmark in the region.

Last year, however, the church had a major repainting of its exterior which garnered mixed reactions from parishioners and the heritage sector.

Prior to the bright yellow facade, we saw the protective palitada of its belfry was already removed to reveal the stone used in its construction.

Interestingly, this bright color scheme is not really uncommon. There are many churches in the country sporting the same coat. For instance, the Saint Francis of Assisi Parish in Nueva Ecija has the same color scheme. Quiapo Church, Our Lady of Manaoag, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Batangas, and Iba Cathedral, all share the same shade.

The interior of the church, on the other hand, showcases a harmonious blend of artistic and architectural elements that reflect its rich history and Renaissance influence.

One of the most striking features inside is the highly intricate retablo. It has three large niches with the image of Saint Catherine enshrined in the middle. The other two niches are seemingly dedicated to Saint Aloysius Gonzaga and Saint Jude Thaddeus. Unfortunately, these niches are covered when we got there.

A bone relic of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

You can also spot a Confessional that matches the design of its altars

Intricate details of the retablo mayor

Some processional images were displayed when we get there.

Mater Dolorosa

Holy Cross

San Pedro

A grotto of Immaculate Heart of Mary outside the church