Manila, a city located in Philippines is known as the “Pearl of the Orient”. It was given this name due to its contribution as a significant trading route between Asia and the Americas in the 16th -19th centuries. Let us explore why Manila is called the pearl of the orient, it’s historical origins, and cities with same nickname in the world.
Why is Manila referred to as the Pearl of the Orient?
Manila is referred to as the Pearl of the Orient since it was a crucial part of the international trade for more than 250 years during the Spanish rule. The city formed the western part of the renowned Manila Galleon trade route, which was operational between 1565 and 1815. This was the route that linked Manila in the Philippines to Acapulco in Mexico.
The title is a demonstration of the extravagant worth of the items that passed through the city. These were Chinese silk, Indian cotton, and spices from the Moluccas. These were traded with Americans for silver.
The Historical Origins of the Title
The first known written record of the title was in 1751. The term was used by a Spanish Jesuit missionary, Father Juan J. Delgado, in the book "Historia General de Filipinas." He called Manila the pearl of the Orient due to its economic status.
In the broader context, the Philippines is referred to as the Pearl of the Orient Seas, and Manila is known as the Pearl of the Orient. It is not only Manila that donned this name, but some other cities have also had the same name at some point in their history. But, for Manila, it is considered the Pearl of the Orient as the same term is documented way back in 1751.
Cities with the Same Name
Although Manila is the city most frequently referred to as the Pearl of the Orient, other cities at one time or another have at some point referred to it as the Pearl of the Orient. Its usage is usually dependent on the historical era or the region in question. These cities are:
Hong Kong
In contemporary terms, Hong Kong is often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient. This is because of the stunning skyline in the city and it being a financial hub in the world. The name became popular during the British colonial rule when the city emerged as a deep-water port.
Shanghai
Shanghai was referred to as the Pearl of the Orient in the 1920s and 1930s. It was the most cosmopolitan Asian city at that time. The title was given because of its nightlife, European-style architecture, and the booming economy. The Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai continues with this legacy today.
Penang
Penang, more specifically its capital George Town, is also known by the nickname Pearl of the Orient. It is due to the natural beauty of the island and the history of the island as a crucial trading post of the British East India Company.
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