The Mabini Shrine in Tanauan, Batangas is a national memorial dedicated to Apolinario Mabini, a
towering figure in Philippine history. A statesman, political philosopher, and “Brain of the Revolution.”
This site marks Mabini’s birthplace (born July 23, 1864) in Barrio Talaga, and also serves as his final
resting place. The Shrine is officially recognized as a Level I National Shrine by the National Historical
Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
The Mabini Shrine, designed by National Artist Juan F. Nakpil, was inaugurated on July 23, 1956,
by Vice President Carlos P. Garcia and Mrs. Luz Magsaysay. A historical marker installed by the
Philippine Historical Committee (now the National Historical Commission of the Philippines) in 1939
marks the exact spot of Apolinario Mabini’s birth, emphasizing the site’s historical significance. In 2014,
the museum underwent renovations and upgrades to a more interactive format, incorporating modern
exhibit features such as audio-visual rooms, stereoscopy, and even a hologram display of Mabini.
Every July 23, on Mabini’s birthday, the shrine hosts commemoration events. In 2024, President
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. attended the 160th birth anniversary ceremony, underscoring the continuing
relevance of the Mabini Shrine as a cultural and historical landmark.
At the entrance, two tall white pylons stand as sentinels, symbolizing greatness, framing a white
marble bust of Mabini sculpted by G. T. Nepomuceno. The compound includes three main structures: his
mausoleum (tomb), a library, and the museum.
To the left of the shrine stands a replica of Mabini’s nipa- hut birthplace, built exactly where his
first home stood, a humble, traditional house made of bamboo and nipa.
The two-story Mabini Museum houses the personal belongings of Apolinario Mabini, including his
eyeglasses, cane, and wheelchair, as well as his writings, photographs, and historical documents.
The museum is organized into seven themed galleries, each highlighting a different phase of
Mabini’s life: Kabataan ni Pule (Early Life), Mabini, Repormista (The Reformist), Mabini, Rebolusyonaryo
(The Revolutionary), Digmaan laban sa Estados Unidos (Philippine-American War), Digmaan sa Luzon
(War in Luzon), Digmaan sa Visayas at Mindanao (War in Visayas & Mindanao), and Pamana ni Mabini
(Mabini’s Legacy).
Visitors can also experience interactive and multimedia features, such as an audio-visual room,
stereoscopic displays, push-button exhibits, and a hologram of Mabini narrating parts of his life. Adjacent
to the museum, the library houses books, manuscripts, and writings by and about Mabini, serving as a
valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts.
Mabini’s remains were transferred from Manila (where he died) to Tanauan, and now rest
beneath a niche flanked by his marble bust and the two symbolic pylons. His signature is embossed on
the side of his grave, adding a personal and solemn touch to his memorial.
Visitor Information:
The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and admission
is free. The Shrine offers a virtual tour through the NHCP’s website, allowing people to explore the
galleries and learn about Mabini online. Beyond its historical importance, the Mabini Shrine stands as a
symbol of moral integrity and intellectual patriotism, inspiring visitors with Mabini’s commitment to
country, even amid personal hardship.
Contact details: (043) 455-2105, or via email.
