Banza Church Ruins # 3: The Balete Tree

Banza Church Ruins Facade

My friend saw my post yesterday and was so interested in the history of this place, particularly on the Balete tree just behind this little building. I had a post already in mind for today, but she made me change my mind and post more photos of the same subject for two days in a row!

When Banza church ruins is mentioned this structure usually comes to mind. This can be seen from across Agusan river too which was the perspective I first had of this historical site (Banza Church Ruins Blog entry #1).

The building on the picture houses the stone writings regarding the history of this church. I think this was the attempt also to rebuild the church from the destruction done by Moros in the past. The tree behind the building is a Banyan tree or more commonly known to us locals as Balete (Banyan). It is said to belong to the family of fig trees. It is where the actual spot of the destroyed church is located. 

When you see a Balete tree you can't help but imagine all kinds of supernatural happenings- if you believe in that sort of thing. It is a huge tree with a gnarly trunk and frightening looking branches (according to one site, is actually aerial roots instead of branches) that fall from the top part of the tree. 

My friend commented to me that it's quite amazing that at present a tree known by its mystical folkloric stories now ensconced the remains of what was known as the first Catholic church in Mindanao, Philippines. Butuan Government site. 

Photo from Banza Church Ruin Entry #2

I can still remember the stories of how Tikbalang, Diwatas and other Philippine folkloric monsters prefer to live on Balete trees. 

For more stories on Balete trees you can follow this interesting site on Balete trees.

Photos taken using Fuji Xe1, Samyang 12 mm