Rizal Park Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Rizal Park
Luneta Park
The Rizal Monument in Rizal Park
Type	Urban Park
Location	Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
Area	58 hectares (140 acres)
Created	1820
Administered by	National Parks Development Committee
Plants	3,497 trees (2015)
Species	112 tree species (2015)

Rizal Park (in Filipino: Liwasang Rizal, in Spanish: Parque Rizal), also called Luneta Park or just Luneta, is a very important historical park in the Philippines. It used to be known as Bagumbayan when the Spanish ruled the country. This large park is located along Roxas Boulevard in Manila, right next to the old walled city of Intramuros. It is one of the biggest city parks in Asia. Many people love to visit Rizal Park, especially on Sundays and during national holidays. It is also one of Manila's main places for tourists.

This park, located by Manila Bay, holds a special place in Philippine history. A famous Filipino hero, José Rizal, was executed here on December 30, 1896. This event helped start the 1896 Philippine Revolution against Spain. The park was later officially named Rizal Park to honor him. A monument holding his remains stands as the park's main symbol. The Philippines also declared its independence from the United States here on July 4, 1946. Later, important political gatherings, including those led by Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon Aquino in 1986, also took place here. These events led to the EDSA Revolution.

Actual site where Jose Rizal was executed.

A Look at Rizal Park's History
What You Can See at Rizal Park
Images for kids
See also

A Look at Rizal Park's History

Rizal Park has a long and interesting past. It was first created in 1820. Over the years, it has seen many important moments that shaped the Philippines.

The Execution of Jose Rizal

One of the most significant events in the park's history is the execution of Dr. José Rizal. He was a Filipino nationalist and a hero who fought for reforms. He was executed by firing squad in Bagumbayan (now Rizal Park) on December 30, 1896. His death sparked even more desire for freedom among Filipinos.

Philippine Independence

After World War II, the Philippines gained full independence from the United States. The official declaration of Philippine Independence happened right here in Rizal Park on July 4, 1946. This was a huge moment for the country, marking the start of a new era.

A Place for People's Voices

Rizal Park has also been a place where people gather to express their views. In 1986, large political rallies were held here. These rallies, led by figures like Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon Aquino, played a big part in the peaceful EDSA Revolution. This revolution changed the course of Philippine history.

What You Can See at Rizal Park

Rizal Park is not just a historical site; it's also a beautiful place to relax and learn. It has many different areas and attractions for visitors of all ages.

The Rizal Monument

The most famous landmark in the park is the Rizal Monument. It honors Dr. Jose Rizal and also serves as his burial place. This monument is a symbol of Filipino bravery and love for country.

Gardens and Green Spaces

The park has lovely gardens, including the Chinese Garden and the Japanese Garden. There's also an Orchidarium, which is a special place for orchids and other plants. These green spaces offer a peaceful escape from the busy city.

Fun for Everyone

Rizal Park also features a musical dancing fountain, which is a popular attraction, especially at night. There's an Open-Air Auditorium where cultural shows and concerts are sometimes held. You can also find the "Flower Clock" and various sculptures around the park.

Kilometer Zero

Did you know that Rizal Park is home to the "Kilometer Zero" marker? This marker is the point from which all distances to other places in the Philippines are measured. It's a small but important landmark.

Images for kids

The Paseo de Luneta, around 1920s (The Rizal Monument was already present)
Military review on Luneta (lower right), 1935
Rizal Park in 2018
119th Rizal Day commemorations
Panorama of the park along Roxas Boulevard
Jose Rizal's Monument in Luneta
Inside the Chinese Garden
The Orchidarium
The Open-Air Auditorium
Rizal Monument
Flower Clock
La Madre Filipina sculpture in Rizal Park before it was transferred back to Jones Bridge
Pink Bougainvillea in Rizal Park
Independence Flagpole
Kilometer Zero
Musical Dancing Fountain