In the bustling city of Cebu, a fortress has stood and continues to stand to the ever-changing time.
Built by the Spaniards under Miguel López de Legazpi, Fort San Pedro is the oldest fort in the Philippines nestled in Cebu City. It is said that the original fort was made out of wood, but as a repel to Muslim raiders, it was then changed to stones. Fort San Pedro is also coined to be the oldest triangular bastion fort in the Philippines.
The triangular-shaped Fort San Pedro is located inside Plaza Independencia, with two sides facing the sea and the third side fronting the land. Though the date of her construction is uncertain, it is certain, however, that the fort underwent major renovations in the late 19th century to help improve the beauty of Cebu.
Today, Fort San Pedro has a museum that displays the legacies of the Spanish government; documents, paintings, and sculptures. Much more, the spacious lawn of Fort San Pedro is often used for celebrations (with special permits of course) like birthdays, weddings, programs, and parties to name a few.
Though considered to be the oldest, Fort San Pedro, to preserve its history and beauty, is under the care of the Cebu City government and is considered as a historical park under City Executive Order no. 08-87 of February 08, 2008 (Plaza Independencia – Fort San Pedro Interim Policy and advisory Board PIFSIPAB).
Nearby Attractions:
- Magellan’s Cross & Basilica del Santo Niño (2-3 min walking distance)
- 8 Ancestral and Museum Houses in Cebu City
- SM City Cebu (20-30 min drive away)
- SM Seaside City Cebu (10-15 min drive away)
- Fuente Osmeña Circle & Crown Regency Sky Adventure (15 min drive away)
Other Information
- Entrance fee: ₱30 per head (20% discount for Students / Senior Citizens / PWDs)
- Operating Hours: 8AM to 7PM daily
- Contact Number: (032) 256 2284
How to get there?
Exact location: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City — 20-30 minutes away from SM City Cebu, 1 hour away from Mactan Airport.
BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney going to Plaza Independencia, or MyBus from SM City Cebu (going to Talisay). Drop off at the nearest point from the SRP’s opening road. Walk heading to Plaza Independencia, just adjacent to Malacanang sa Sugbo.
BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “Fort San Pedro”. Parking space is available.