5 must-visit historical landmarks in Cebu – A tribute to Filipino heritage

Located inside a Spanish-style pavilion and within a stone’s throw of Cebu City Hall and the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines – Basilica Minore del Santo Nino de Cebu; the historic setting of Magellan’s Cross will be your first encounter with Cebu’s unique heritage. The wooden cross currently found here is said to encase the very cross that was planted by Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan when he first discovered the country in 1521. Essentially, Magellan’s Cross is symbolic of two things: firstly, Spain’s colonisation of the Philippines and secondly, the spread of Catholicism throughout the nation. This landmark is believed to echo the initial encounters between the explorers and the indigenous people of the Philippines and therefore, is a site that you ought to include in your bucket list.

Having etched its presence as the smallest and oldest fort in the Philippines, calling by Fort San Pedro or Fuerte de San Pedro must rank as a priority during your travels in Cebu. Found under 4 km from the stylishly appointed lyf Cebu City, which is one of the finest hotels in Cebu City, Fort San Pedro was the brainchild of the country’s 1st Governor-General, Miguel Lopez de Legaspi. Known to have served multiple purposes, including as an army garrison, prison camp, school, hospital and amazingly enough, a zoo, this tourist attraction is shaped as a triangle and features a museum as well. Within its four walls are a series of artefacts referencing the times of the Spanish, historic documents, paintings and photographs. From the roof deck, you may capture the overall appearance of the stronghold, which looks out in two directions towards the ocean while the remainder pans out towards Cebu City.

Wander through the years and develop an understanding of how the affluent existed in the country while the presence of Spanish colonialism grew when at Casa Gorordo. Positioned along E. Aboitiz Street, Casa Gorordo showcases the minute details of a wealthy Filipino family that lived during yesteryear. Having seen the light of day in the 1850s, Casa Gorordo is more than a mere residence but a living testament to Cebu’s distinct culture. Spend time inside the rooms and venture out into the courtyards where a treasure-trove of exhibits, including antique furniture is on display.

Page through the annals of Cebu’s origins at Museo de Sugbo; an iconic edifice that initially served as the provincial jail (Carcel de Cebu). Boasting a history that can be traced back to 1871, Museo de Sugbo is made up of 4 galleries. Of particular relevance is the presidential gallery that introduces visitors to the former Filipino presidents through a range of portraits, and the archaeological gallery, which contains a fascinating array of ceramic and gold artefacts that were recovered from the San Diego shipwreck.

Accessible upon arriving at Cebu’s Parian District, the cherished site of Cebu Heritage Monument will cap off a truly memorable journey in the Queen City of the South. The detailed bronze tableau, which was the work of Eduardo Castrillo evidences some of Cebu’s most important events. Moreover, the work highlights the Battle of Mactan, the beatification of martyr Pedro Calungsod and Rajah Humabon – the Cebuano chief who was one of many local chieftains to have associated with Ferdinand Magellan in the 16th century.

The bustling island of Cebu is at the heart of Visayan and Cebuano culture and can be reached by travelling to Central Philippines. Retaining a strong Spanish heritage, Cebu is a holiday-friendly destination that will appeal to all tastes and ages.