Marawi City, Philippines
Region: Lanao del Sur
Geographic Coordinates: 8.000000, 124.300000
Temperature Range: 24.0°C to 33.0°C (75°F to 91°F)
Population: 207010
Language: Filipino
Marawi City is a small but vibrant city situated in the province of Lanao del Sur, Mindanao, Philippines. It is known as the Islamic City of the country because of its large Muslim population and rich Islamic culture. The city covers a total land area of 8, 755 hectares and sits at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level. One of Marawi City’s most notable landmarks is Lake Lanao, Which spans an area of 340 square kilometers and serves as a major source of freshwater for nearby areas.
The lake also provides breathtaking views and recreational activities like boating and fishing. The people in Marawi City are predominantly Muslim with around 95% practicing Islam. This has led to unique cultural practices such as wearing traditional clothing like hijabs for women and thobes for men. The locals also speak different dialects including Maranao, Tagalog, English, And Arabic. Marawi City has a rich history dating back to pre-colonial times when it was part of the Sultanate of Lanao.
During World War II, It became one of the strongholds against Japanese forces due to its strategic location on Lake Lanao’s eastern shore. The city’s economy mainly relies on trade and commerce with neighboring cities such as Iligan City. However, Agriculture remains an important sector with crops like rice, Corns, Coconuts being grown by farmers in nearby municipalities.
In recent years though Marawi has been plagued by conflict following an attack by ISIS-affiliated militants who took over parts leading to destruction buildings including schools hospitals among others resulting in displacement many people from their homes resulting into humanitarian crisis that still persists today despite efforts by government agencies local non-governmental organizations among others trying to rebuild what was lost during this period Despite these challenges faced by residents they remain resilient determined towards rebuilding their beloved city back better than before.
The city is slowly recovering with help from various organizations working together to restore peace and stability in the region.
- Lake Lanao – The largest lake in Mindanao with stunning views and a popular spot for water activities like boating and fishing.
- Marawi Grand Mosque – Also known as Islamic Center Mosque or Masjid Islamic Center, it is one of the most important mosques in Mindanao.
- Rizal Park – A public park that offers a scenic view of Lake Lanao and serves as a venue for various events.
- Fort Dansalan – A Spanish-era fort located at the heart of Marawi City that served as a military stronghold during the colonial period.
- Aga Khan Museum – A museum showcasing traditional Muslim culture through its collection of artifacts, clothing, and other items.
- Tugaya Weaving Center – A place where visitors can witness traditional weaving techniques passed down from generation to generation by local artisans.
- Kapai Resort- One of the best resorts in Marawi City where tourists can enjoy swimming pools, gardens with beautiful landscapes, playgrounds for children’s entertainment among others.
- Lake Dapao- Another lake situated near Marawi city which is famous for its crystal clear water perfect for swimming or fishing.
- Masjid Dimaukom- Known as Pink Mosque due to its pink exterior color which has become one of the most photographed landmarks in Mindanao.
- Agriculture – Marawi City is known for its rice production and other crops such as corn, vegetables, fruits, and root crops.
- Fishing – The city has access to Lake Lanao which provides fish for local consumption and trade.
- Handicrafts – The locals are skilled in weaving traditional textiles such as malong, sarong, and other woven products made from abaca fibers.
- Retail Trade – Several small businesses operate within the city offering goods ranging from food products to clothing items.
- Services – Other major industries include healthcare services provided by government hospitals and private clinics.
- Education – Marawi City is home to several universities including Mindanao State University (MSU) which offers courses ranging from engineering to law.
- Tourism- Tourists visit the city primarily due to its historical landmarks like the Masjid Islamic Center or MSU campus with its scenic views of Lake Lanao on one side while surrounded by mountains on all sides.
- Construction- With rehabilitation efforts ongoing after the 2017 siege of Marawi City there have been significant construction activities around the city including housing projects for displaced residents.
- Trading- Due to its strategic location being near ports like Iligan Port or Cagayan de Oro Port it serves as a hub for trading activities between different regions of Mindanao island.
- Transportation- As a regional center transportation services such as jeepneys buses tricycles taxis etc are available making it an important transit point between different areas within Mindanao Island.
- The Siege of Marawi was a significant event that lasted for five months and resulted in destruction and displacement due to the armed conflict between the Philippine government and ISIS-affiliated militants.
- Marawi City was part of the Sultanate of Lanao before Spanish colonization, which had various sultans ruling it for centuries.
- Datu Piang, a legendary warrior who fought against American forces during the Philippine-American War, is a notable figure in Marawi’s history.
- Mindanao State University (MSU), established in 1961 with its main campus located in Marawi City, is one of the largest universities in Mindanao.
- Lake Lanao near Marawi City is one of Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lakes and has significant cultural importance to the Meranaw people who live around it.
- The Meranaw people are an indigenous group who have their own unique language, customs, and traditions and have inhabited what is now known as Marawi City for centuries.
- There are several important Islamic heritage sites such as Masjid Dimaukom (also known as Pink Mosque) and Masjid Qadim Sharifaiyah Mosque which dates back to 1630 AD due to being predominantly Muslim city.
- Dr Mamitua Saber was a prominent politician from Mindanao who served as Governor of Cotabato Province from 1972 to 1986; he also served as chairman emeritus at MSU until his death on August 25th ,2020 due to COVID-19 complications after being born on September 8th ,1939 at Barangay Lumbac Marinaut.
- Brigadier General Salipada K Pendatun born on March 6th ,1912 was a former senator, governor, and military officer considered one of Philippines’ most prominent figures; he was born in Marawi City.
- Dr Nasser A Marohomsalic, born in Marawi City on January 4th ,1976, is a renowned Islamic scholar, author and professor instrumental in promoting Islamic education and interfaith dialogue throughout the Philippines and other countries worldwide.
- Marawi Siege Memorial Museum – This museum is dedicated to the victims of the 2017 siege in Marawi City and showcases artifacts and photos from the event.
- Mindanao State University Museum – This museum features exhibits on the history and culture of Mindanao, including traditional arts and crafts.
- Lake Lanao – This beautiful lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnics.
- Islamic Center Mosque – The largest mosque in Marawi City with stunning architecture that reflects Islamic traditions.
- Dansalan Bato Mosque – A historic mosque built during the Spanish colonial period; it was used as a fortress by Filipino revolutionaries during the Philippine-American War.
- Rizal Park – A public park located near Lake Lanao featuring statues of national heroes like Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio.
- Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts – A private museum showcasing Islamic art from around the world, including textiles, ceramics, calligraphy, and more.
- Fort Santiago del Fuego – An old Spanish fortification located on top of a hill overlooking Lake Lanao; it was used as a military stronghold during colonial times.
Note: Some places may be closed due to COVID-19 restrictions or other reasons; please check ahead before visiting any place mentioned above.
- Eid al-Fitr – This Muslim festival is celebrated at the end of Ramadan.
- Eid al-Adha – Another Muslim festival commemorating Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
- Marawi Week Celebration – Held every September 1-5, this week-long celebration showcases the city’s rich culture and history through various activities such as parades, street dancing, sports competitions, beauty pageants, and food fairs.
- Lanao del Sur Foundation Day – Celebrated every November 15th to commemorate the province’s creation.
- Maulid un-Nabi – A religious celebration held annually on Prophet Muhammad’s birthday.
- Ramadan Night Market – Held during Ramadan where locals sell traditional delicacies and other goods until late at night.
Please note that due to recent conflicts in Marawi City, some events may have been postponed or canceled for safety reasons.
- A restaurant that serves a variety of Filipino dishes including Maranao cuisine.
- Marawi City used to have public parks and recreational activities before the conflict in 2017.
- Lake Lanao is the largest lake in Mindanao where visitors can enjoy boating and fishing.
- The Mindanao State University (MSU) Botanical Garden is also a peaceful place to stroll around with a variety of plants and flowers.
- The Marawi Sports Complex offers facilities for basketball, volleyball, tennis, and other outdoor activities.
- The Aga Khan Museum showcases the history and culture of the Maranaos.
- Dansalan Gardens is a park located near Lake Lanao where locals can relax or exercise.
- It’s important to verify whether these places are currently open or accessible due to security concerns in some parts of Marawi City after the conflict happened in 2017.
