Marawi City

Welcome to Marawi City, the heart of Lanao del Sur and proudly known as the “Islamic City of the Philippines.” Nestled beside the majestic Lake Lanao and surrounded by the misty mountains of Mindanao, Marawi dazzles with its Maranao culture, royal traditions, colorful torogans, and sacred rhythm of daily prayer. This city is a tapestry of resilience, beauty, and deep spiritual heritage.

• Lake Lanao – The second largest lake in the Philippines, it’s the serene soul of Marawi, perfect for reflection, boat rides, and golden-hour photos.
• Mindanao State University (MSU) – Not just a school, but a cultural center with panoramic lake views, museums, and a peace-loving campus vibe.
• Torogan Houses – Traditional royal Maranao homes with okir carvings, symbolic of power and prestige.
• Grand Mosque of Marawi (Islamic Center) – Once a major landmark and symbol of faith, efforts to rebuild it reflect the city’s unyielding spirit.
• Capitol Complex & Aga Khan Museum – Dive into Marawi’s history, art, and royalty through artifacts and cultural exhibits.

Marawi is the stronghold of Maranao culture, one of the most sophisticated Islamic-influenced societies in the country. It celebrates sultanates, okir art, malong weaving, and traditional dances like kapamalong-malong. Respect for faith, family, and heritage runs deep in every barangay and every prayer call echoing through the hills.

Maranao is the main language spoken here, laced with poetic expressions and Islamic greetings. Filipino and English are also understood, especially in academic and government institutions. Want to blend in? Say “Salam Alaikum”, peace be upon you!

Maranao cuisine is vibrant, spicy, and rich in tradition.

• Piaparan Manok – Chicken stewed in turmeric, coconut milk, and spices
• Rendang – A spicy beef dish full of deep flavor
• Palapa – A fiery mix of scallions, chili, and ginger that kicks up every dish
• Lokatis and Dodol – Sweet, sticky treats made from rice and coconut
• Tapay and Tiyateg – Unique Maranao rice-based desserts you won’t find anywhere else

• Kapamagogopa Festival – Promotes unity and cultural understanding among Muslim and Christian communities
• Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha – Major Islamic celebrations marked by prayer, sharing food, and family gatherings
• Charter Day (August) – Commemorates Marawi’s cityhood with parades, sports, and cultural shows

Maranao music uses traditional instruments like kulintang, agung, and tambor, creating hypnotic rhythms that accompany dances and rituals. Chanting, poetic storytelling, and epic recitations are also woven into their vibrant oral tradition.

• Islamic architecture and Maranao culture
• Lake Lanao’s serene beauty
• Royal houses (Torogans) and okir wood art
• Traditional Muslim-Mindanao cuisine
• Mindanao State University’s cultural importance
• Resilient spirit after the 2017 siege