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Located at the eastern coastline of Siquijor, perched beside the highway, stood a coral-stone fortress: Sta. Maria Church is one of the island’s oldest and most mysterious religious landmarks.



Unlike other churches on the island, this one had an eerie charm—strong, silent, and steeped in legend. Inside was not your usual saintly image. There, behind the altar, stood Sta. Rita de Cascia, famously known in Siquijor as the “Black Maria”, dressed in black and holding a skull.

Church main door

The church isn’t as frequently visited as Lazi Church or Siquijor Church, but that’s exactly why it’s worth the trip. It stands out with its dark and dramatic depiction of Sta. Rita, its defensive architecture, and its unique place in the spiritual consciousness of the island. This church is a symbol of both faith and folklore, making it one of the most intriguing religious sites in Siquijor.

This church is as fascinating as it is spiritually powerful—and a must-visit if you’re exploring the lesser-traveled eastern side of Siquijor.

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History and Significance


Official Name: Our Lady of Divine Providence Church

Commonly Known As: Sta. Maria Church / Maria Church

Built: 1880s by Spanish missionaries

Material: Coral stone, thick wooden doors, and red tile roofing

Architecture: Fortress-like with thick stone walls and minimal decoration

Patron Saint: Sta. Rita de Cascia, known as the patroness of impossible causes

Unique Feature: The church’s statue of Sta. Rita (called “The Black Maria”) is depicted in a rare and solemn posture—clad in black, holding a crucifix and a human skull

Image of Sta. Rita de Cascia, the Black Maria

Locals believe Sta. Rita is both a protector and punisher, and some even credit the statue with miraculous events and spiritual intercessions.

Inside, the altar is simple yet imposing, and the entire church evokes a deep sense of reverence. The thick walls, meant to protect against Moro pirate attacks in the 19th century, still stand as testimony to the island's turbulent past.



How to Get There

Maria Church is located in the town of Maria, on the eastern coast of Siquijor Island.

From Siquijor Town: ~27 km / ~40–50 minutes

From Larena: ~24 km / ~40 minutes

From San Juan: ~30 km / ~1 hour

By Scooter: ₱300–₱400/day rental

By Tricycle: ₱500–₱700 (round trip or as part of island tour)

It’s along the coastal highway and easy to spot—just before reaching Salagdoong Beach, if you’re coming from the north.


Mass Schedule

Sundays: 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM (Check at parish office for updates)

For hassle-free experience, you can book a full-day tour on Klook. Get up to 5% discount when you use JUANKLOOK on your next booking!


Best Time to Visit


Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer people

Visit during May 22, the feast of Sta. Rita de Cascia, to witness local festivities


What to Bring and What to Wear


A water bottle and sun hat if visiting mid-day

Camera (photography is allowed outside and with respect inside)

Donation money if you’d like to help with church maintenance

Modest clothes (no sleeveless tops or short shorts)

Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring nearby areas

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

Travel Tips


Take time to read the plaques and say a quiet prayer or light a candle inside

Ask locals about their stories with “Black Maria”—many are willing to share tales of miracles or discipline

After your visit, continue to Salagdoong Beach just a few kilometers away for a relaxing break by the sea


Maria Church is a hidden treasure, quietly guarding the eastern coast of Siquijor. It’s a place of devotion, mystery, and strength—and one that leaves a lasting impression on both the curious and the faithful.



Compare Prices on Other Travel Apps

To make sure you are getting the best deals, always compare prices with other booking apps. Here are some of the top travel apps that I use frequently:

Explore Siquijor!

This is part of my exploration in Siquijor Island in 2014. Here are the places I visited in the Isla del Fuego:
North Haven Lodge in Larena

Where to Stay in Siquijor

Here are some recommended accommodations:

  • Coco Grove Beach Resort – A luxurious beachfront resort in San Juan.

  • White Villas Resort – A mid-range resort with excellent amenities.

  • U Story Guesthouse – A charming, budget-friendly option with a relaxing vibe.

  • Infinity Heights Resort – Offers stunning hilltop views.

  • North Haven Lodge – Affordable lodging near Larena Port.

All You Need to Know About the Santa Maria Church and the Black Maria in Siquijor


Located at the eastern coastline of Siquijor, perched beside the highway, stood a coral-stone fortress: Sta. Maria Church is one of the island’s oldest and most mysterious religious landmarks.



Unlike other churches on the island, this one had an eerie charm—strong, silent, and steeped in legend. Inside was not your usual saintly image. There, behind the altar, stood Sta. Rita de Cascia, famously known in Siquijor as the “Black Maria”, dressed in black and holding a skull.

Church main door

The church isn’t as frequently visited as Lazi Church or Siquijor Church, but that’s exactly why it’s worth the trip. It stands out with its dark and dramatic depiction of Sta. Rita, its defensive architecture, and its unique place in the spiritual consciousness of the island. This church is a symbol of both faith and folklore, making it one of the most intriguing religious sites in Siquijor.

This church is as fascinating as it is spiritually powerful—and a must-visit if you’re exploring the lesser-traveled eastern side of Siquijor.

Loading...

History and Significance


Official Name: Our Lady of Divine Providence Church

Commonly Known As: Sta. Maria Church / Maria Church

Built: 1880s by Spanish missionaries

Material: Coral stone, thick wooden doors, and red tile roofing

Architecture: Fortress-like with thick stone walls and minimal decoration

Patron Saint: Sta. Rita de Cascia, known as the patroness of impossible causes

Unique Feature: The church’s statue of Sta. Rita (called “The Black Maria”) is depicted in a rare and solemn posture—clad in black, holding a crucifix and a human skull

Image of Sta. Rita de Cascia, the Black Maria

Locals believe Sta. Rita is both a protector and punisher, and some even credit the statue with miraculous events and spiritual intercessions.

Inside, the altar is simple yet imposing, and the entire church evokes a deep sense of reverence. The thick walls, meant to protect against Moro pirate attacks in the 19th century, still stand as testimony to the island's turbulent past.



How to Get There

Maria Church is located in the town of Maria, on the eastern coast of Siquijor Island.

From Siquijor Town: ~27 km / ~40–50 minutes

From Larena: ~24 km / ~40 minutes

From San Juan: ~30 km / ~1 hour

By Scooter: ₱300–₱400/day rental

By Tricycle: ₱500–₱700 (round trip or as part of island tour)

It’s along the coastal highway and easy to spot—just before reaching Salagdoong Beach, if you’re coming from the north.


Mass Schedule

Sundays: 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM (Check at parish office for updates)

For hassle-free experience, you can book a full-day tour on Klook. Get up to 5% discount when you use JUANKLOOK on your next booking!


Best Time to Visit


Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer people

Visit during May 22, the feast of Sta. Rita de Cascia, to witness local festivities


What to Bring and What to Wear


A water bottle and sun hat if visiting mid-day

Camera (photography is allowed outside and with respect inside)

Donation money if you’d like to help with church maintenance

Modest clothes (no sleeveless tops or short shorts)

Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring nearby areas

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

Travel Tips


Take time to read the plaques and say a quiet prayer or light a candle inside

Ask locals about their stories with “Black Maria”—many are willing to share tales of miracles or discipline

After your visit, continue to Salagdoong Beach just a few kilometers away for a relaxing break by the sea


Maria Church is a hidden treasure, quietly guarding the eastern coast of Siquijor. It’s a place of devotion, mystery, and strength—and one that leaves a lasting impression on both the curious and the faithful.



Compare Prices on Other Travel Apps

To make sure you are getting the best deals, always compare prices with other booking apps. Here are some of the top travel apps that I use frequently:

Explore Siquijor!

This is part of my exploration in Siquijor Island in 2014. Here are the places I visited in the Isla del Fuego:
North Haven Lodge in Larena

Where to Stay in Siquijor

Here are some recommended accommodations:

  • Coco Grove Beach Resort – A luxurious beachfront resort in San Juan.

  • White Villas Resort – A mid-range resort with excellent amenities.

  • U Story Guesthouse – A charming, budget-friendly option with a relaxing vibe.

  • Infinity Heights Resort – Offers stunning hilltop views.

  • North Haven Lodge – Affordable lodging near Larena Port.
Church Heritage Philippines Siquijor Visayas Western Visayas

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