Janiuay is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Iloilo, located 33 kilometers north-west of the province's capital. The town is formerly known as Matagup. Janiuay prides itself on two heritage infrastructures dating back from 1760, its glorious church and cemetery.

The Janiuay Catholic Church was built of sandstone, lime stone and layered bricks and was completed in February 1770. Its belfry used to carry three magnificent bells, the largest weighing close to a ton. The old fortress was dedicated to San Julian during the incumbency of Fr. Miguel Carod in the 1850s. The interior is Tuscanic and the interior is of Doric order. The new church made of materials from the Guimaras Island replaced the former church that was burnt down by Japanese invaders in 1942. The original structure was not restored. The new church rests beside the ruins of the old one.

The Janiuay Cemetery was built much later in 1870. It is walled with ancient sandstone and bricks. The construction started under the supervision of Fr. Fernando Llorente and is Gothic in design. The Janiuay town cemetery is located a kilometer east of Janiuay Catholic Church.

Janiuay is also home to several heritage mini sugar mills owned by landed Spanish mestizos and Swiss descent. These mini sugar mills have seen their own time and once produces brown sugar.

“Sadsad Sa Kalye” is a street-dancing affair celebrated every 19th of January expressing the beliefs, views, visions and aspirations of the Janiuaynons based upon tradition, historical experiences, and culture of the people of Janiuay. “Sadsad” is a native word meaning dance. With its many areas of historical significance, visitors of the town of Janiuay will surely get the real sense of its rich culture and heritage.

Sources:

Wikipedia

WOW Philippines

Visita Iglesia