Heritage Museum: Where History Lives On

The Manila Hotel’s Heritage Museum is a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate the iconic hotel’s illustrious past. Regarded as the Philippines’ most historic hotel, The Manila Hotel has gathered an unparalleled collection of memories. From the time William Howard Taft and Architect Daniel Hudson Burnham created an urban plan for the city of Manila to the grand debut of the country’s first five-star hotel in 1912, and more than a century later – The Manila Hotel remains to be a living historical and cultural landmark. 

The Manila Hotel has set up the Heritage Museum for guests to immerse themselves in the antiquities and rediscover not only the hotel’s golden years but also the city’s rich history. Important artifacts from the hotel’s vast archives are on display, highlighting the great events that have transpired and the grand aspirations that have been realized throughout its 110-year history. 

Some photos on display at the Heritage Museum are The Manila Hotel’s photographs during and after the World War II under the Japanese invasion. Having survived the Battle of Manila in 1945, the hotel was rebuilt and restored by the Philippine Government, and the Grand Dame glistened once again in 1946.

Glimpses captured from the hotel’s rich history also include those of dignitaries and celebrities who visited and stayed at The Manila Hotel are also on display – Former US Presidents Bill Clinton and Richard Nixon, the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, Hollywood legend Marlon Brando, Astronaut Neil Armstrong, Royal family members like the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, and other various Heads of State. 

Another highlight at Heritage Museum is the scale model of The Manila Hotel, showing the original main building constructed in 1912 and the tower that was added in the ‘70s. As well as the scale model of the first American Pan-Clipper that landed in Manila Bay just off the shore of The Manila Hotel. 

Heritage Museum is open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm daily. To check the availability of guided tours, please contact Concierge at (632) 8527-0011 or (632) 5301-5500.