Daraga

Southeast of Luzon is where the small market town of Daraga is situated. The Daraga Church is placed impressively on a hill overlooking Mount Mayon in this remote hamlet, which is located in the shadow of the volcano. The church, erected in 1773 out of volcanic rock, has some elaborately sculpted reliefs on its columns.

In various Bikol dialects, the word daraga, which originally meant "maiden," is now used to refer to a "unmarried lady." Due to the ongoing dangers posed by the Mayon Volcano, Daraga's ancient settlement, which dates to the 12th century, has relocated numerous times. Previously, the settlement was known as Budiao, Cagsawa, and Locsin.

Cagsawa Church, one of the most well-known locations in the area, is located just northwest of the city. During a severe Mount Mayon eruption in the early 19th century, hundreds of people sought shelter in the church but perished when the structure was submerged by lava. In contrast to the lush plains and imposing Mount Mayon, the church's ruins appear somewhat eerie.

Location: Daraga, Albay, Philippines