Vigan City is one of the few remaining historical sites within the Philippines
Vigan City is in a region steeped with history and set within a beauty like nowhere else in the Philippines. A small coastal city situated on the west coast off the island of Luzon. Vigan City was once an island itself but due to centuries of silting of the Mestizo River, Vigan is now part of the mainland.
Vigan City is one of the few remaining historical sites within the Philippines that are still fully intact. The 16th century estates which encompass the borders of the city are untouched and a wonder all themselves. The Spanish design throughout the city is amazing, with traditional styles related to European, Colonial, Oriental and Philippine architecture. The city remains one of the last true enduring Hispanic towns within the borders of the Philippine Islands.
While here, take a traditional tour by horse drawn cart known as a Kalesa. This 18th century Spanish mode of transportation is a great way to view the city in style. The cobblestone lined streets give the city a unique way to bring you back in time along with the beauty of a city which beckons many to come here. Some superb places to see around Vigan City are:
: St. Paul’s Cathedral – The beauty of the exterior of this structure is a work of art in itself. Built in 1574 through calamities, fire and other unfortunate issues the church which stands today was commissioned in 1790. The Bell tower and the cemetery are two areas of the compound which are worth adding to your tour. Also visit Plaza Burgos which stands alongside of St. Paul’s and is a dedication to Father Jose Burgos an Illogos legend.
:Burangay Pugburnayan – This jar making district is a sight to see. The decorative ware factories use ancient methods to produce their products including human powered clay wheels along with unique clay kneading done by carabaos.
:Vigan Heritage Village – Also known as the district of Mestizo. This historical district is the main attraction to Vigan City and is a district which has been listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1999.
Plaza Salcedo – Dedicated to the great Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo, this town square is also home to the great Dancing Fountains, a nighttime entertainment which rivals that of the Bellagio water fountains in Las Vegas, Nevada.
:Balurate – A zoo located in Salindeg where young and old can enjoy tigers, ostriches and other local animals which are housed here. The noticeable and unique dinosaur statues are also a fun twist and photo opportunity to add to your travel moment.
Other great areas include historical places such as Sequia Mansion, Crislogo Museum, Quema House, Simbaan A Bassit, Archbishop’s Residence, Father Jose Burgos Residence, Hidden Gardens and many more. Vigan City is full of history not just for the old but also the young to see and enjoy. A trip to Vigan City will take you back in time. Time has not stood still is other areas of the city and modernization and expansion has formed Vigan into a city looking well into the 21st century and beyond
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John is a very young 56 who has lived in the Philippines for over ten years and makes his living online as an SEO consultant and copy writer along with other onliner resources. John has lived in Davao, Manila and in Puerto Galera and has become an honoury Filipino. His hobbies include traveling and 1970s culture
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