Top 8 Heritage Sites in Cebu to Visit

Cebu is known to be a great place for relaxation and excitement but that is not the only thing Cebu has to offer. Make your visit worthwhile and let us then know the heritage sites in Cebu.

If you seek for fun facts there are also numerous historical sites in the city accessible to everyone who wishes to take a little step back on its history and culture. Gratefully those artifacts, monuments, and infrastructures have been preserved up to this day which works as solid proofs and memorial to the old times of the city. All of these are now considered to be one the major tourist attractions of Cebu that have put a mark in history that people honor and remember.

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1. Lapu-Lapu Shrine

   

Just a few meters away from the airport, one historical shrine is situated. It is where Lapu-Lapu, the first Filipino hero, had fought with Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. It was called the famous Battle of Mactan which today marks a celebration for the people of Mactan. Here you will see the exact shoreline where they fought as well as paintings of the event and Lapu-Lapu’s big statue.

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2. Magellan’s Cross

   

Moving along from the Lapu-Lapu Shrine head down to the city where Ferdinand Magellan’s memorial or they call it the Magellan’s Cross is standing upright. People of Cebu honor Magellan for bringing Christianity to the Philippines in general. He is also the one who introduced the image of the Santo Nino (Child Jesus) to the Philippine islands. The cross is being protected inside a small house-like made out of stone bricks with some steel-gates which are perfectly designed and well-maintained.

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3. Fort San Pedro

   

Approximately just 10mins away from the Magellan’s Cross is the Fuerza de San Pedro or the Fort San Pedro. This fort was meant to protect the city from the Muslim raiders. It was not built by the Spaniards alone but also the native Cebuanos during Spanish rule in 1738. Inside the fort are mini museum and other interesting objects where details and artifacts during that time are being kept. Also, around it are at least 2 to 3 old cannons.

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4. Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House

   

A best example of old Filipino house is the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House. It has been preserved for it stands as a great way to show how the early Filipinos used to live. The house is full of antiques and old stuff. Old furniture like the chairs, tables, lightings, painting and even utensils can be seen inside. Just by staring at the view from the outside, you will right then feel the excitement of the past, how much more if you start your tour inside.

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5. Casa Gorordo Museum

   

Just a few blocks away from the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House is a heritage house museum downtown of Cebu City. The house will take you the late 19^th century feels. The lower portion of the house is made up of massive stone walls made of coral, which is a good protection from fire and typhoon. A display of the old clay tile roof and wide sliding panel windows will welcome you. Four generations of the Gorordo family have lived in this house including the first Filipino bishop in Cebu, Bishop Juan Gorordo.

Related: Gabii sa Kabilin 2016

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6. Basilica Minore  del Santo Niño

   

Just beside the Magellan’s Cross is where the Basilica del Santo Niño is located. Considered to be one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the country, is the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child or the Basilica del Santo Niño. Founded in 1565, the Basilica represents as the cradle of Christianity in the East. It is believed that it is the exact spot where the image of Santo Niño de Cebu was sighted. The present form of the Basilica today was rebuilt in 1737, but despite the violent earthquake in 2013 that shocked many Cebuanos where luckily only the bell tower collapsed, leaving the remaining parts of the church still intact.

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7. Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral

    
   

   

If you move to the facing the right side of Basilica del Santo Niño, there is the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. It is a Roman Catholic Church that holds the ecclesiastical seat of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Cebu. It is also considered by many to be the Fount of Christianity in the Far East. The interior design of the cathedral serves as an incredible backdrop for wedding photos, making it highly wanted for weddings to be celebrated in.

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8. The Heritage of Cebu Monument

   

This monument greatly attracts visitors for a significant image that it represents. This prestigious monument is just across the street of Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House. The landmark is a representation of monumental sculptures showcasing the most important events in the history of Cebu– from the time of Rajah Humabon to the recent beatification of Cebuano martyr Pedro Calunsod. The monument is one of the best pieces of work of national artist, Edgardo Castrillo, which started in July 1997 and installed on December 8, 2000.

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If you wish to be touched by Cebuanos history and culture, and then make sure you get to visit these places. Don’t hesitate to ask your Cebuano friends, it will be more fun.