Santa Maria de Mayan Church

Santa Maria de Mayan Church is the main Roman Catholic parish church of Itbayat Island in Batanes, located in the town center of Santa Maria (Mayan). It serves the northernmost municipality of the Philippines. The stone church is notable for its thick walls and simple design adapted to frequent typhoons and earthquakes, and for its role as the spiritual and community center of Itbayat since the Dominican mission period.

Visitors can expect a modest, typhoon-resilient stone church in the center of Mayan town, surrounded by traditional Ivatan stone houses and narrow streets. The interior is simple with an altar, pews, and religious images. The exterior features thick coral-limestone walls, a small bell tower, and a courtyard. The setting is quiet and exposed to strong winds, with views of the town and nearby hills. Visitors can observe daily religious life and attend Mass when scheduled.