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San Dionision Church Ruins: A Glimpse into Guam's Past

Explore the historic San Dionision Church Ruins in Umatac, Guam, and step back in time to the Spanish colonial era. A serene and historical landmark.

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The San Dionision Church Ruins in Umatac offer a poignant reminder of Guam's Spanish colonial era. Built in 1862, the church was destroyed by an earthquake in 1892, leaving behind evocative ruins that whisper tales of faith and resilience.

A brief summary to San Dionision Church Ruins

  • 7MX7+HC2, 2, Umatac, GU

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the ruins involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and a light snack, as there are no facilities nearby.
  • Take time to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape and Umatac Bay.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hagåtña, take the Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) bus towards Umatac. Buses typically run every hour. Inform the driver you are going to the San Dionision Church Ruins. Once in Umatac, disembark at the bus stop closest to the church; the ruins are a short 5-10 minute walk away. Follow the local signs. Bus fare is approximately $1.00 per ride, or $3.00 for a day pass.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from most hotels and major shopping centers. A taxi ride from Hagåtña to Umatac will cost approximately $50-$70. The standard flag rate is $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter. Ensure the taxi has a regulated meter.

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Discover more about San Dionision Church Ruins

Located in the village of Umatac, the San Dionision Church Ruins stand as a testament to Guam's rich history. The ruins are what remains of the third Catholic church believed to have been constructed on Guam. It was built in 1862 by the local Chamorro people and Spanish soldiers, serving the Jesuit missionaries. Constructed from manposteria (coral stone mixed with lime mortar), the ruins feature surviving buttresses that reach a height of 13 feet. The original San Dionisio Church was first erected in 1681, but it was rebuilt after a fire three years later. This structure met its end in 1849 due to an earthquake, with some of its materials potentially incorporated into the 1862 building. The ruins are the only surviving remnant of the Spanish colonial headquarters that once stood in this area. A new church was built in 1939 and still stands today. The ruins were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Visitors can explore the site, taking in the serene atmosphere and imagining life during the Spanish colonial period. Informational plaques guide visitors through the historical context, offering insights into the lives of the indigenous Chamorro people and the impact of colonialism. The ruins provide a peaceful contrast to Guam's more commercial attractions, allowing for a deeper connection with the island's past.

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