Museo ni Jose Rizal Fort Santiago- Rizal Shrine

On the night of December 29, 1896 at Fort Santiago, Dr. Jose Rizal penned his untitled valedictory poem, which came to be known as “Mi Ultimo Adios.” It essayed a serene acceptance of his death and aspired for his countrymen’s awakening from injustice. By the morning of December 30, Rizal bravely faced his execution, a testimony to his sacrifice for Philippine freedom.

Prominently featured in the Rizal Shrine’s themed settings are artifacts serving as vistas to the life, achievements, and last hours of the national hero such as personal effects, sculptural pieces, and facsimiles of select writings. Foremost of the artworks decorating the Shrine, is the large painting of National Artist Carlos V. Francisco on the ground floor depicting Rizal’s execution. Also on display are the prize-winning paintings of the 1961 Jose Rizal Centennial painting competition, which portray various events in the hero’s life. At the first section of the museum is Rizal’s cell, recreated to show a life-size wax effigy of the hero composing his last poem, sculpted by National Artist Guillermo Tolentino. Noteworthy in the Gallery 2, Silid Kabayanihan is a piece of Rizal’s vertebra enshrined in a special receptacle, and in the Gallery 8, Silid Pamana, the full text of his penultimate poem is engraved on the sandstone wall.

The Rizal Shrine Fort Santiago encapsulates the great spirit of Dr. Jose Rizal within its maze of exhibited artifacts and its open spaces, inviting the viewer’s reverence and contemplation for Rizal’s acceptance of death with utmost dignity, calm, and nobleness.