Binondo, established in 1594, became a cultural melting pot as Chinese immigrants brought their traditions, customs and beliefs. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a thriving commercial center, attracting traders, artisans and entrepreneurs from around the globe.
Its strategic location along the Pasig River made it a vital link in the global trade network, facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas between Asia, Europe and the Americas.
To integrate arts, culture, history and heritage into its developments with Lucky Chinatown as the focal point, property developer Megaworld Corp. opened the country’s first cultural museum dedicated to Binondo’s rich history – the Chinatown Museum.
The museum, on the fourth floor of Lucky Chinatown’s north wing along Reina Regente Street, is recognized by the National Historical Commission and National Commission for Culture and the Arts as a community space and heritage project. It visually retells the area’s rich history.
Upon entering, visitors are immediately immersed in a world of discovery. The stories of the past come alive through a meticulously curated collection of artifacts, artworks and interactive exhibits.
The museum comprises 18 galleries that highlight key events influencing Binondo’s cultural, social and economic landscape. It explores the area’s evolution from a settlement of Christianized Chinese to a vibrant commercial hub in colonial Manila.
After purchasing tickets, visitors are greeted with a short video presentation on Binondo’s history and other details about the place. An interactive map showcasing historical and current street names also welcomes them.
The history of Binondo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, is displayed. The Spanish government encouraged the Chinese to convert by offering social and economic privileges. Social integration was symbolized by a new haircut.
The Chinese Pagoda exhibit replicates the annual fluvial procession of San Nicolas de Tolentino, patron saint of Chinese mestizos. Starting from Binondo, it travels via the Pasig River to Guadalupe.
Another gallery is devoted to the Alcaiceria, which translates to “Silk Market.” The Real Alcaiceria de San Fernando was built in 1752 following a royal decree by Ferdinand VI. Items on display include housewares, textiles and various commodities traded during that time.
A dark and dingy representation of an opium den is also featured. Opium dens were establishments where opium was sold and smoked.
The museum highlights the diverse industries of the era. Among the exhibits is a faithful reproduction of an antique bed from Eduardo Athay’s Taller de Carpenteria, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the time.
Binondo’s industrial history, including tobacco factories, is showcased. One wall displays cigar covers from Edward de los Santos’ private collection, while the opposite side focuses on La Insular Cigar and Cigarette Factory.
A corner is dedicated to the Esteros de Binondo, which played an important role in trade and commerce. The canals facilitated the transport of goods such as bananas and coconuts.
The Chinatown Museum’s allure extends beyond multimedia presentations. Interactive exhibits, like one that transports visitors back in time to a traditional botica, or pharmacy, truly captivate visitors.
The Botica de San Fernando features a Chinese medicine cabinet where visitors can see and smell different herbs used by the apothecary.
Binondo’s reputation as a culinary hotspot is also reflected within the museum walls. Visitors can learn about the district’s culinary treasures like dim sum, pancit, and even tablea.
The Panaderia gallery is adorned with incredibly lifelike food props, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the world of traditional delights like hopia, buchi, and siopao.
As visitors continue exploring, a captivating centerpiece awaits: a meticulously crafted scale model of a horse-drawn tranvia, offering a glimpse into Manila’s past transportation.
Additional galleries spotlight various aspects of Binondo’s historical significance. One exhibit showcases Escolta’s transformation into the nation’s premier hub for shopping, dining and entertainment by the 1870s.
Another highlights the establishment of Binondo as the home to the country’s first banks, including Standard Chartered Bank, Bank of the Philippine Islands, and Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp. Additionally, visitors can explore El 82, Ramon Ongpin’s hardware and art supplies shop, along with exhibits commemorating the Philippine revolution, a period marked by growing Filipino dissent against Spanish rule.
As Binondo continues to evolve, the Chinatown Museum remains a steadfast guardian of its cultural heritage, preserving the memories and traditions of past generations for future enjoyment and enlightenment. It serves as a platform for promoting tourism and community engagement, contributing to the revitalization and preservation of Binondo’s cultural heritage.