Discover the Beauty of Vigan

 Discover the Beauty of Vigan

Vigan City is a unique city in the northern part of Ilocos Sur known for its unique blend of history and culture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with old houses, kalesa, and Spanish architecture that bring our colonial past to life. In this photo essay, let’s explore the beautiful places to visit in Vigan.

Vigan Cathedral  is also known as St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, it is one of the oldest churches in Ilocos Sur. It was founded during the Spanish era and was built as a symbol of the rise of Christianity in the region. Its architecture is a mix of Baroque and Neo-Gothic designs, emphasizing the beauty and durability of the structure even over time.

Inside the church, you can see antique altars, statues of saints, and colorful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. Important celebrations such as Semana Santa and the Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts are held here, which are visited by devotees and tourists.

The Vigan Cathedral is not only a place of faith but also a living cultural heritage that reminds us of the strong ties of history, religion, and tradition of the people of Vigan.

Plaza Salcedo 

Every evening, the Dancing Fountain of Plaza Salcedo dances to the rhythm of lively music. It is one of the main attractions of Vigan that is visited by tourists, especially at night. The spectacular display of water, light, and sound delights not only visitors but also locals. The fountain is located in the center of Plaza Salcedo, where you can also see the monument of Juan de Salcedo, the founder of Vigan. Around it, you can see historical buildings and churches that provide a unique view as the fountain dances. The Dancing Fountain symbolizes the modern face of Vigan—a city that knows how to look to the future while preserving its historic past. It is a proof that Vigan is alive, colorful, and continues to flourish as a tourism center in northern Luzon.

Plaza Burgos is a historic square in the heart of Vigan City. It is named after Father Jose Burgos, one of the GomBurZa martyr priests who fought for the rights of Filipinos during the Spanish era. In the center of the plaza, you can see the statue of Father Burgos standing as a symbol of heroism and inspiration to the people. It is surrounded by green plants, colorful flowers, and colonial structures that provide a cozy and peaceful atmosphere. tells the story of each family that once lived here. It is not just a tourist spot but

it is a living museum that testifies to the rich culture and history of Vigan. It is an example of how the city combines the preservation of tradition and the development of tourism with respect for the past. Plaza Burgos serves as the city's tourism hub. Many tourists visit it every day to stroll, relax, and take pictures. This generates additional income for local businesses such as restaurants, souvenir shops, and vendors in the area. Activities and celebrations held at the plaza, such as the Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts, also provide opportunities for residents to showcase their arts, products, and culture.

Calle Crisologo - the most prominent street in Vigan City and considered the heart of the historic city. It is famous for its old stone houses, wooden windows, and carriages passing thru narrow streets with cobblestone or stone roads. The entire scene seems to transport you back to the Spanish colonial era, as if time has stood still to showcase the beauty of the past. During the day, tourists flock here to stroll, shop for souvenirs and local products like burnay pottery, inabel fabric, and other Ilokano crafts. At nite, the scene becomes even more romantic because of the lights illuminating the old houses, which seem to tell the history of each family that once lived there. This is not just a tourist spot – it's a living museum that showcases the rich culture and history of Vigan. This is an example of how the city combines preserving tradition and developing tourism while respecting the past. Additionally, the street boasts shops selling items like abel woven fabric, handicrafts, and traditional foods such as longganisa, bagnet, bibingka, and empanada, which help improve the community's economic situation. Promoting these local products not only improves the economy but also strengthens Filipino pride. Calle Crisologo is not just a tourist spot; it is also a lasting reminder of who we are as Filipinos. Every Filipino should visit this heritage street to see how history, art, and community come together to create one of the most beautiful places in our country.

Overall, tourism in Vigan provides jobs, income, and unity to the people. This is proof that by valuing culture and history, the economy and lifestyle of the entire community can also be developed.

The beauty of Vigan City is truly amazing, from the historic Calle Crisologo, the environmentally friendly and fun Baluarte Zoo, the peaceful Vigan Cathedral, the colorful Dancing Fountain of Plaza Salcedo, to the historic Plaza Burgos and Crisologo Museum. Each place has a story waiting to be discovered and experienced. At Plaza Burgos, you can feel the history and culture while enjoying local foods such as empanada and okoy. Meanwhile, at the Crisologo Museum, you can discover the wealth of history and heritage of the Crisologo family that contributed to the identity of Vigan. I invite you to visit and experience the unique charm of Vigan, where history lives in every street, building, and smile of the people. During your visit, you will not only be able to witness the beauty of the city, but you will also be able to contribute to the development of the local economy and the preservation of our Filipino culture.