When my sister, Twinkle, came over to visit, we checked out the newest tourist spot in Cebu.....
The Taj Mahal of Agra is one of the most famous structures in the world. The emperor had the monument built in loving memory of his wife (third), Mumtaz Mahal.
The Temple of Leah is slowly becoming one of the most famous in Cebu. Perched high above the hills of Busay, the "temple" is breathtakingly huge.
We entered through the side near the parking area. (We found a really neat spot under a tree.) And then I discovered that Facebook pictures do not really show that the building is still under construction so we had to go through dusty stairs to get to the main floor. But oh when we got to the main floor, wow! Transported to Rome! Or the Parthenon.
The Roman architecture was constructed in 2012 by Cebuano businessman, Teodorico Adarna, as "a symbol of undying love for and ceaseless devotion" to his late wife, Leah Adarna, whose golden image sits regally in the middle of the temple. Awwww...
As inscribed in the temple, he also wanted a structure that would withstand time so that future generation of Adarnas who came from her would be able to go back to their roots.
When finished, the temple will have 24 chambers that will showcase the lifetime collections of Mrs. Adarna. We saw a library and sections upon sections of porcelain and marble statues and figurines. The items were just covered in plastic and not in glass cases befitting them.
Guarding the entry way of the temple were two giant golden lions (sphinx inspired). On one side, a naked Roman archer poised ready to shoot. There is also a coin operated telescope on the temple grounds apart from the statues found sporadically.
Unfinished, the building was already impressive. The Adarnas are very generous in sharing this edifice for FREE. (Although, I wonder how the workers get things done with so many people checking out the place daily.)
On our way out, I saw mermen lying on the floor. I am not sure where they will be placed but I sure am coming back to find out.
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