The Philippines is rich in history, from overcoming colonization to embracing traditional roots and more. Each province has its own story, and Cebu, where the Spaniards first set foot in the country, is full of tales about history. To learn more about this beautiful city, you must visit the historical places in Cebu.
Top 5 Must-Visit Historical Sites in Cebu
Cebu is now a booming city that boasts numerous attractions. It is such a diverse province that tourists can choose from its contemporary attractions, rich beaches, or historic sites. To get you familiar with these places, here are the top five spots you must visit!
Fort San Pedro
This fort’s roots date back to the Spanish colonial period when it was commandeered by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Throughout the years, Fort San Pedro has served multiple purposes, including:
- Army garrison
- Penitentiary camp
- Rebel stronghold
- City zoo
Although the structure shows evidence of its age, most of it is still unmistakable. Visitors can see a gateway with two sides facing the water and the entrance to the fort facing the land. Additionally, two cannons face the sea. Aside from its war significance, it now serves as a museum holding numerous Spanish items.
Magellan’s Cross
One of the most popular historical attractions in Cebu is Magellan’s Cross. Filipinos are no strangers to who Magellan is and how he impacted Spain’s colonization of the country and Christianity. The site stores remnants of the original cross he planted in the country when he persuaded Cebu’s Raja Humabon, his wife, and people to convert from paganism to Catholicism.
Locals and tourists used to believe that the cross could heal them from illnesses. Due to this, the cross was slowly ruined, and parts of it were taken from the pavilion that housed it. In response, the local government rebuilt the cross with the original’s remnants. At present, people are no longer allowed to take a piece of the artifact.
Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño
One of the historical places in Cebu is near Magellan’s Cross, the Sto. Niño Church. Locals across the nation celebrate Jesus as a Holy Child during its festival season, and numerous tourists flock to Cebu for the yearly celebration. However, many tourists also visit this church since it is Cebu’s oldest one.
During Miguel Lopez de Legazpi’s leadership in Cebu, they found an image of Sto. Niño inside a burnt wooden box. This box was believed to be an item left behind by Magellan and a miracle since the statue survived a fire. In 1566, the church burned again, and the image remained untouched. By 1965, after multiple fires and constructions, Pope Paul VI had made the church into Basilica Minore.
In 2013, a massive 7.2-magnitude earthquake hit Cebu, damaging the church again. However, since this event, the church has been restored and is still populated with parishioners and tourists.
1730 Jesuit House
This historic site in Cebu is one for the books, especially for history buffs. It is located in the Parian District, the main area of Chinese merchants during Spanish rule. Many tourists may pass this by since it is inside a warehouse owned by the Sy family of Cebu. This home is one of the oldest in Cebu, with a medallion in the structure saying “Año 1730.”
The current homeowners bought the 1730 Jesuit House from another family in the 1960s and used both buildings as a resting place and warehouse. The Sy family never lived in this house since it was used mainly for business purposes. However, the son or current owner of the property found its historic roots by accident. While studying in Ateneo, he grabbed a book about their property.
Since this discovery, more Jesuits have begun to frequent the home. Moreover, since it was open to the public, even more people flocked to visit and see one of the oldest homes in Cebu for themselves.
See Also: Top South Cebu Travel Destinations
Plaza Independencia
Another of the historical sites in Cebu includes a significant monument to Cebuanos’ independence. The Plaza Independencia served a prominent role during Spanish rule in Cebu, going from being a military base and parade ground to becoming an icon of freedom. Its name has also changed from Plaza de Armas in 1600 to Plaza Maria Cristina, Plaza Libertad, and now Plaza Independencia.
This structure has seen its fair share of the Philippines colonized by the Spaniards and Americans. In 2007, it had to close due to security and environmental issues. However, the site was reopened to the public in 2011. At present, the plaza is more than just a tourist attraction. Locals and visitors come here for everyday activities like walking, jogging, picnics, and more.
Final Thoughts
Many rich historical sites in Cebu tell the story of the country’s journey to independence. So whether you’re looking to explore the origins of Christianity in the Philippines or how colonizers invaded the country, Cebu is full of these tales. If you want a place with everything, from historical sites to rich natural resources, visit Cebu.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re looking to explore the ancient sites of Cebu, here are a few questions you might be looking for answers to.
What are the heritage sites in Cebu?
There are many historical sites in Cebu, including the ones mentioned above. Other places include the Magellan Shrine, Yap Sandiego Ancestral House, Mancao Ancestral House, and Fort of Kota Park, which is located on Bantayan Island, Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church, and more.
What is the history of Cebu City?
Cebu is considered the country’s oldest settlement due to Spanish rule, which began in the 1500s. Magellan landed in Cebu in 1521, beginning Spain’s rule over the Philippines.
What is the most historical street in Cebu?
Colon Street in downtown Cebu is the first and oldest street in the country. It played a significant role in Philippine history during Spain’s colonial rule.
Related: What To Do in Danao Cebu