Rizal Park (Luneta)
Rizal Park is the shrine of the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. It contains the bronze-granite monument and the mausoleum that houses Rizal’s remains, both located near the spot where he was executed.
The monument, which was designed by a Swiss sculptor Richard Kissling (his design is the Motto Stella or “Guiding Star”), was unveiled in 1913 during the 17th death anniversary of Rizal. Soldiers, known as Kabalyeros de Rizal (Knights of Rizal), continuously guard the monument 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Rizal Park was formerly called Luneta Park. During the time with the Philippines was still a colony of Spain, it was called Bagumbayan (which is short for Bagong Bayan or “New Town”). On 30 December 1896, Jose Rizal was executed by the Spaniards at Bagumbayan for his “subversive” ideas.
Rizal Park is found along Roxas Boulevard in the City of Manila, just across the Manila Hotel and Quirino Grandstand. It’s an open public park and the surrounding tree-covered open space is a favorite picnic ground.