Vigan is a coastal city in the northwestern Philippines, capital of Ilocos Sur province and the only UNESCO World Heritage City in the country. It was recently named one of the New Seven Wonders Cities of the World.
There are 187 listed ancestral homes in the city. Additionally, it features colonial churches, a night fountain show in the plaza, a zoo, and historic museums. Vigan’s cuisine is noteworthy and can be easily enjoyed at many restaurants in the area. Tourists, both first timers and experienced, are drawn to Vigan City.
Let’s explore the best things to do here while visiting.
CALLE CRISOLOGO
Calle Crisologo is a historic street in Vigan, Philippines known for its well-preserved colonial houses and architecture. While visiting here you can:
Explore the ancestral homes – Walk down the street and admire the Spanish-style houses, some of which have been converted into museums, inns, and shops.
Visit Museums – Check out the Crisologo Museum and the Vigan Heritage Village Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture.
Shop for souvenirs – Browse through the shops along the street and buy souvenirs such as Ilocano textiles, antiques, and traditional pottery.
Take a horse-drawn carriage tour – Take a leisurely tour of the city on a kalesa, a horse-drawn carriage, to see the sights and learn about the history of Vigan.
Enjoy traditional cuisine – Sample Ilocano dishes such as pinakbet, bagnet, and longganisa at one of the many restaurants along Calle Crisologo.
Take in a cultural performance – Watch a traditional dance or music performance in the evenings to experience the local culture.
Take a night tour – Walk down Calle Crisologo at night to see the street lit up and experience a different side of the city.
Visiting Calle Crisologo is a must-do for those interested in history and architecture. Experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and take a step back in time.
THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES
The National Museum of the Philippines in Vigan, Ilocos Sur offers a wealth of knowledge and history for visitors to explore. Here are the best things to do:
Explore the exhibitions – The museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, including artifacts, works of art, and historical documents.
Learn about the history of Ilocos Sur – Discover the history of Ilocos Sur, from the pre-colonial period to the present, through interactive displays and exhibits.
Attend a workshop or lecture – The museum regularly holds workshops and lectures on various topics related to Philippine culture and history.
Visit the gift shop – Browse the museum gift shop for unique souvenirs and books on Philippine history and culture.
Enjoy the architecture – The museum is housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, offering a glimpse into the architecture and design of the Philippines.
Take a stroll in the gardens – The museum grounds feature beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll and taking in the sights.
The National Museum of the Philippines in Vigan is a must-visit for anyone interested in Philippine history and culture. It offers a wealth of knowledge and a chance to learn more about this fascinating country.
VIGAN CATHEDRAL
Vigan Cathedral, also known as St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral, is a historic Catholic church in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. While visiting here you can:
Admire the architecture – The cathedral is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture, with intricate details and a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles.
Attend Mass – Join the local community in a Sunday Mass or other religious service to experience the spiritual side of Vigan.
Explore the interior – Take a tour of the cathedral’s interior to see its impressive stained glass windows, ornate altars, and historic artifacts.
Learn about the history of the church – Discover the history of the cathedral, including its construction and restoration, and learn about its significance to the local community.
Admire the stained glass windows – The cathedral features beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of St. Paul, the patron saint of the church.
Take in the peace and quiet – Step inside the cathedral for a moment of peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
THE BANTAY CHURCH BELL TOWER
The Bantay Church Bell Tower in Vigan, Ilocos Sur is a historic tower and landmark in the area. Here are the best things to do in Bantay Church Bell Tower.
Climb to the top – Climb the steps of the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Ilocos region and the South China Sea.
Learn about the history of the tower – Discover the history of the tower, including its construction, restoration, and significance to the local community.
Admire the view – Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the tower, taking in the stunning scenery of the Ilocos region.
Learn about the church – Visit the nearby Bantay Church, a historic Catholic church that is part of the same complex as the bell tower.
Explore the surrounding area – Take a walk around the surrounding area to see more of Vigan and the Ilocos region, including other historic landmarks and cultural attractions.
PAGBURNAYAN JAR FACTORY
Pagburnayan Jar Factory offers a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the traditional methods of making earthenware jars in the Philippines. The factory employs skilled artisans who use techniques passed down from their ancestors to create beautiful and functional jars. The jars made at the factory are not only decorative but also serve practical purposes such as food storage and cooking.
Visitors can take a tour of the factory to learn about the jar-making process and observe the artisans at work. The tour is a great way to understand the intricate process involved in making a single jar, from shaping the clay to firing it in the kiln. You can also purchase a hand-made jar as a souvenir of your visit, which is a great way to support the local artisans and their work.
For those interested in the history of jar-making, the factory features a museum displaying a collection of antique jars. The museum provides an interesting insight into the development of jar-making in the region and the cultural significance of the jars. Visitors can also try making a jar themselves with the assistance of the artisans, which is a fun and educational experience.
Pagburnayan Jar Factory is also a great place to relax and enjoy a local meal or snack. The factory’s café serves a variety of dishes and drinks, offering a taste of the local cuisine.
So, Pagburnayan Jar Factory is a unique cultural experience that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the traditional art of jar-making in Vigan, Philippines. Whether you are interested in history, art, or just looking for a unique cultural experience, Pagburnayan Jar Factory is well worth a visit.