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Art
enthusiasts compare it to the Sistine Chapel, for its magnificent
interior, although the Betis Church is more impressive in terms of
symmetry, gracefulness and theme. Fr. Fernando Pinto started its
construction in 1660 and was finally completed in 1770 by Fr. Jose de
Cruz. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) declared
this church a National Treasure, one of only 10 churches in the country
bestowed that honor. Main attraction in the interior include: ceiling
mural by famous painter Simon Flores; paintings on dome and walls
depicting significant biblical events and figures by local artists led
by brothers Martin and Severino Gozum Pangilinan; 19th and 20th Century
sculpture by local artists supervised by the famous Maximo Vicente, and
multi-awarded (internationally) artists Juan Flores and Willy Layug;
esquisite retablo heavily coated/gilded with solid gold; ornate
baptistery; intricate paintings on dome. Main attactions in the patio
(exterior) include: Exquisite sculpture inthe Monument of Santiago de
Galicia (Spain's most important patron saint); Monument of St. Joseph
the Carpenter and the giant Monument of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
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