Rizal monument
Landmarks Rizal Park Rizal monument
José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda, also known simply as Jose Rizal, was the Philippines’ national hero.
The pride of the Malay race and esteemed all over the world as one of Asia’s greatest leaders, there are numerous monuments to him across the globe—from several states in the USA, to Canada, Tokyo, China, Hong Kong, Sydney, Germany, and of course, the one in Madrid, Spain, which is a replica of the monument that stands before you now.
Designed by Swiss sculptor, Dr. Richard Kissling, this 14-meter high monument was dubbed “Motto Stella,” which means guiding star.
The Rizal Monument in Luneta, a symbol of national pride, has an intriguing history that connects the Philippines to an international design competition. On September 28, 1901, the United States Philippine Commission passed Act No. 243, mandating the construction of a monument to honor Dr. Jose Rizal at the site of his execution. This monument would not only showcase a statue of Rizal but also serve as the resting place for his remains.
To bring this vision to life, a committee was formed, including Rizal’s brother, Paciano. From 1905 to 1907, the committee organized a global design competition, inviting sculptors from Europe and the United States to participate. Among the entries, Italian artist Prof. Carlo Nicoli won first place with his design titled "Al Martir de Bagumbayan." However, due to contractual issues, the project was awarded to the second-prize winner, Dr. Richard Kissling, a Swiss artist.
Kissling's design, crafted from unpolished granite and bronze, has since become an enduring symbol of Rizal’s principles of simplicity and humility. While Nicoli’s marble design might have been more luxurious, the final monument reflects the values Rizal himself championed, making it a fitting tribute to the national hero.
The Rizal Monument, titled "Motto Stella" ("Guiding Star"), is rich in symbolism and history. It portrays Dr. Jose Rizal in an overcoat, holding a book to represent his seminal novels, Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo, which played pivotal roles in the Philippine fight for independence from Spanish rule.
The obelisk behind Rizal reflects his Masonic ties, while the three gold-plated stars symbolize the country's three major island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Sculpted figures of a mother nurturing her child and two boys reading highlight the importance of family and education. Additional details, like the leaves and pot at the monument's back, celebrate the Philippines' natural resources.
Before reaching its final resting place beneath the monument, Rizal's remains endured a journey. Secretly buried at Paco Park after his execution, they were exhumed in 1898 and safeguarded by his family until 1912.
During the cornerstone-laying ceremony on December 30, 1912, his remains were interred beneath the monument.
The shrine was officially unveiled a year later on Rizal’s 17th death anniversary, December 30, 1913, marking the renaming of Luneta Park to Rizal Park. Today, the monument remains a site of national pride, guarded by the Philippine Marine Corps and adorned with floral tributes during national holidays, state visits, and other commemorations.
Location of Rizal Monument
