Escolta

From WikiPilipinas: The Hip 'n Free Philippine Encyclopedia

Escolta, circa 1890s

Escolta- is a famous street in Manila, Philippines. During the Spanish and American occupation of the Philippines, Escolta was known as the commercial district of Manila.

The name is said to have originated from the mid 19th century when Spanish Captain Generals paraded the street with heavy escorts--and people shouting "Escorts"--which later became Escolta.

Some of the luxury shops and bazaars in Manila of the olden days were located in Escolta such as Botica Boie, Beck's, La Estrella del Norte, Squires & Bingham, Erlanger and Galinger, and Oceanic.

Escolta today. The old Regina building on left still stands to this day. Photography by Dennis Villegas

Today, Escolta remained a busy commercial street, but no longer for shopping. Although some of the old Art Deco remains in the street(including the Regina Building), it is now mostly occupied by banks and other services shops.