Vigan, the Old World City

Vigan City is known as the “Old World City” because of its unique cobblestone streets and architecture. It is considered a third class city and the capital city of Ilocos Sur and the seat of the provincial government. It is situated on the western coast of Luzon, facing the South China Sea. It can be easily reached via land or air transport. It will consume approximately seven to ten hours drive from Manila to Vigan via Partas Bus Co., Dominion Bus Lines, Viron Transit, and St. Joseph/Aniceto Transit. Other buses like Philippine Rabbit Bus Line, Farinas Transit, Maria de Leon, and RCJ Transit are bound for Laoag but passes by Vigan. If you wish to travel by air, take Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Airlines from Manila to Laoag International Airport.

The City of Vigan is described by its local and foreign visitors as a place where “time stood still” and a “place like no other” because it was able to preserve the uniqueness of its historic townscape. With its centuries-old edifices, is a breathing reminder of what was once a royal city. Some landmarks and tourist attractions that you can visit are the following:

1. The Meztizo District or Heritage Village is a best representation of the Phillipines’ colonial past with its numerous ancestral house mixed with local, Asian and Spanish architectural styles.

2. St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral which is known as “earthquake baroque” because of its unique design intended to minimize earthquake damage.

3. Archbishop’s Residence is located adjacent to the Cathedral. It is the oldest archbishop’s residence still in use in the Philippines.

4. Plaza Salcedo is the site of resistance leader Gabriela Silang’s public hanging in 1763.

5. Plaza Burgos is a favorite hang-out for locals and often used for staging major public events.

6. Ayala Museum is the former house of Father Jose Burgos which is now a place for Ilocano artifacts, weapons, kitchen utensils, basketry, costumes, jewellery and Burgos Memorabilia.

7. Baluarte is the governor’s fortress that features a mini zoo with exotic animals.

8. Vigan’s Pagburnayan is where hand pottery is done.

9. St. Augustine Church is also known as Bantay Church and Bell tower with a belfry that provides a breathtaking view of the town.

Other interesting places to visit in Vigan that will truly make your stay worthy are Leona Florentino House and Statue, Mindoro Beach and Playa De Oro Resort, and Vigan Tourist Park at Mira Hills. You can also visit the town plaza and the marketplace to savor the local flavors of Ilocano cuisines.