Tayo na sa Antipolo!

From Steemit Antipolo's chosen winner of Photography-Feature Writing Contest, we would like to give you a detailed information and quick history review about Mystical Cave in Antipolo City, Rizal.

Among the many contestants who submitted their entries, we selected the article covered by @ailyndelmonte
My ENTRY for Steemit Antipolo Photography-Feature writing contest
because of its uniqueness, picturesque view, clear and well-established shots, and also the caption of the said article.

HISTORY

Inday Nelly Deles, as her name viewed at the entrance of the cave, is the discoverer of the Mystical Cave. Rumor says it that when she is 7yrs old, she often dreamed about it. She was from Iloilo City in Visayas and traveled to different places just to search for a cave that she often sees on her dream. As her voyage sets foot to the province of Rizal, she remembered exactly what it looks like. Little by little connecting the puzzle pieces of her dream. Until she found a cave in Antipolo but with a small opening. She used every possible way to widen the coin-like hole opening of the cave. And thus, creating an entrance from the loud explosion that she devised. From then on, her name is always affiliated when hearing stories about the history of Mystical Cave.

Mystical Cave is a sanctuary hidden at the heart of Puting Bato at Sitio Bubukal, Barangay San Luis in Antipolo City, Rizal. From the town proper of Antipolo, you can ride a tricycle for 50 or 60 pesos to get there. But if you prefer driving your car, it would be more convenient because of having only few service vehicles passing along the area. It is a prime destination for pilgrims not only during Lenten season but also on Sundays and holidays. It was believed that water dripping from the cave's stalactites can heal illness. The stones found inside the cave were also treated as amulet by the locals. The cave is considered as sacred because of the holy images found on different rock formations. Images depicting Jesus Christ, Mama Mary, Adam and Eve, Holy Nazarene, Holy Trinity, St. Peter and more adds mystery to the cave.

Before going to the cave, you will arive first at the foot of the mountain where rosaries, religious items, candles and prayer booklets were being sold. Snacks, drinks, accessories and hadkerchiefs can also be bought there. A torture from a flight of stairs will test your endurance before heading to the cave. You have the option to be accompanied by tour guides and you can give donations to them in no particular amount, no fixed price. Entrance fee on the Mystical Cave is 50pesos only. And it is only limited to several chambers, allowing you to explore only on the first levels of the cave. Some passages are too compressed to enter. You need to secure a permit in order to fully explore the depths of the cave. You also need a license for professional mountaineer in order to hike freely on the restricted areas inside the cave.

A number of local movies and tv series filmed on this cave such as Spirit Warriors, Enkantadia, Pedro Penduko, Dyesebel, Marina and Asian Treasures. Some portions of the cave were dug or altered according to the need of the scenes. Some rock formations were dislocated due to natural calamities. There are also dark spots that can be seen on the cave’s ceiling caused by the smoke of burning candles. For some, it could be a minor thing , but part of preserving and restoring places like this is by keeping it natural.

Another trail leads to the grotto where you can enjoy a different view. Following a steep, pitted trail for about 30minutes or less, you will arrive at the peak of the mountain. Above the summit, you will find three wooden crosses standing tall, depicting the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. You will also get to see a good view of the vicinity, some nearby hills and quarrying sites. The peak of the mountain where cold breeze blows adds a refreshing feel after long, tedious walks. It is indeed rewarding when you get to the top. A breath-taking 360 degree-view of the vast, plain field eases the pain of hiking towards the peak. You can also feel the relaxing ambiance as you watch the overlooking fields of greenery.

Antipolo has so many wonderful places to be discovered. The Mystical cave is truly a majestic and alluring site that you will definitely visit. The place has an enchanting aura you will surely love. And the locals are maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the area. The beauty of this place is truly undeniable, but people should also be more responsible in preserving this gem. Nature plays an important role for habitats of birds and bats living inside the cave. We should learn to protect and conserve their shelter.

Come and visit Mystical Cave. We invite you to explore and experience yourself what mysteries lie beneath the depths of the cave. We certainly recommend this place as it is worthy of your time and also economical. For hikers and mountain climbers, this is a must to try. For the religious and the faithful, this is another way of impression. And to anyone looking for adventure, this may relieve you of what you sought after. Spend time with your family and friends as you learn nature's scenic spots.

"Tayo na sa Antipolo!"