Being the home of almost ninety percent Catholic devotees out of its whole population, Bohol is also the home of countless Catholic churches. From the Spanish era until now, the number of churches in the province keeps multiplying in number.

One of these notable churches is the Assumption of Our Lady Shrine Parish located at Poblacion, Dauis, three kilometers southwest of Tagbilaran City. Founded by the Jesuits under the matrix parish of Baclayon, the church became a separate parish in 1697 subservient of the nominal patronage of the Assumpion of Our Lady. The entirety of the church, convent and watch tower were built with coral stone blocks. It is of Gothic and Neoclassical architecture. Construction of the watch tower was done by Father Santiago del Corazon de Jesus, Order of Agustinian Recollects (O.A.R.) in 1774. The erection of the present church was initiated by Father Julio Saldana, O.A.R. in 1863-1879. The church was inaugurated by Bishop Juan Garordo of Cebu last August 23, 1923 and was proclaimed Shrine of the Assumption of Our Lady on August 15, 2004. It was also cited as a National Historical landmark in 2009.

This old church is also one of the victims of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that retaliate the province last October 15, 2013. The church’s façade and its portico are badly disfigured. At present, the restoration of the church is on-going. However, tourists can still visit this historical church and can still witness its beauty especially the magnificent frescoes on the church’s ceiling that were painted by Ray Francia and Canuto Avila in 1919-1923. But this visit must be done with caution because of the said reconstruction. Currently, masses in the parish are temporarily held at St. Therese Hall, ground floor Dauis convent.

Aside from the historical church, tourists can also visit the wharf located at the back. It is an absolute place for a repose from your busy schedules. In addition, a coffee shop and resto called Café Lawis is also situated at the beside the church where you can eat Filipino touched delicacies and a place under the acacia tree overseeing the sea between Panglao Island and Tagbilaran City.

This one of the many historical churches in Bohol is not just a place to pray and be closer to the Almighty Creator but is one of the very good spots to loosen from wearisome activities.