Determination of the Golden Ratio in Selected 16th to Mid – 19th Century Churches of Panay Island, Central Philippines
Josh Thomas Clement1, Ryan Izach Josue1, Kyle Jeremiah Ledesma1, Jonathan Murga1 and Joseph Simon Madrinan1
1Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
Abstract
Using numerical analysis and geometric construction, this study aimed to find out whether the Golden ratio is present in churches constructed during the 16th to mid-19th century in Panay, an island in central Philippines. The study focused on churches that met the criteria set by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines as historically significant namely: Pan-ay Church, Sta. Barbara Church, and Jaro Cathedral. A measuring device, that utilizes a laser, was used to take measurements. The values obtained were used to construct a floor and facade plan then proportionalized to determine their ratios. Ratios within five percent error margin of the Golden ratio were observed which showed that all three churches sampled exhibited the Golden ratio. However, access to historical documents is needed to conclude a purposeful intent of using the Golden ratio in the churches design.