You Can Now Tour the Newly-Restored Manila Metropolitan Theater Virtually
After years of restoration, the Manila Metropolitan Theater (AKA the Met) is reopening. Known as the "Grand Dame of Manila," the Juan M. Arellano-designed theater is a historic venue that was partially destroyed during the Battle of Manila.
Suffice to say, the theater has been through a lot. And, it's also had several restoration attempts. One during the '70s, and another back in 2010 until it was finally abandoned. So, this recent restoration has become one of the most-awaited projects.
"The inauguration of the new Met is the culmination of a long arduous journey. This has been made possible by the determined effort of a long line of individuals who share a common dream to bring back to life one of our nation's cultural treasures," said NCCA chairman Arsenio "Nick" Lizaso.
We don't have to wait any longer, though. The theater is reopening in April 2021 in time for the 500th anniversary of the Victory at Mactan. That said, we're still in a pandemic and seeing the Met isn't as simple as turning up for a tour.
The next best thing? A full view of the theater—virtually, of course—with the help of Pamana. If you didn't know, Pamana is a digital preservation project that seeks to document heritage structures churches, lighthouses, museums, WWII sites, shrines, ancestral houses, forts, and more.
Click here for a 360-degree virtual tour of the Manila Metropolitan Theater.
