The Queen City of the South is filled with a colorful past beyond its bustling metropolis. Although Cebu island itself is the 126th largest island in the world, it’s city is designed to make almost everything within walking distance.
So, if you’re looking to explore Cebu City’s historical landmarks, just slip on some comfy shoes, lace them up, and start strolling through the bustling streets to begin your journey to the past; even better, here’s a guide for you to easily navigate the place:
Colon Street
Hailed as “The Oldest National Road of the Philippines,” Colon Street is the busy metropolitan area of Cebu where tons of malls, shopping areas, food courts, and anything related to trading can be found. It was established in 1565 during the Spanish colonial period and used to have roads filled with horses, before cars were invented.
If you want to find the indication or proof of its moniker, you can head over to the Colon Obelisk where a plaque and painting is placed showing the old Colon Street with a detailed story about its establishment.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Colon Street, Cebu City, Philippines
- By Commute: Take a jeepney heading to Colon Street and inform the driver that you’ll be dropping off at Metro Colon (a mall that also serves as a landmark as it’s the center of Colon). If you’re departing from the airport, you can take the modern jeepney with a route going to Colon; while if you’re from the other side of Cebu Island, you can simply take a bus going to the bus terminals within the city. For jeepney guides, you can check out this article to help you.
- By Car: Navigate via Waze or pin the location “Colon Street” as your destination. There are tons of parking spaces inside malls and establishments, however, inquire about the fee prior to doing so because the prices may range from Php 25.00 to Php 250.00, depending on the location.
Heritage of Cebu Monument
After discovering the Colon St Obelisk, take a moment to admire the “Heritage of Cebu Monument” nearby, a stunning sculpture that showcases and captures Cebu’s rich history. This masterpiece portrays various moments like the Battle of Mactan, the national heroes, and even shows the Filipino bayanihan spirit. By night, the monument transforms into an even more interesting sight as the lighting strikes each detailed face, casting eerie shadows. Local lore adds a layer of intrigue, with stories about statues that seem to blink in the darkness of the night. But who knows, right? You’ll have to visit and see for yourself!
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Sikatuna St, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
- By Walking: From the Colon Obelisk, turn left to Sikatuna Street via Mabini Street where the monument will greet you immediately. You’ll see it at the very center, about 100 meters away from the obelisk; you’ll definitely won’t miss it.
Yap-San Diego Ancestral House
From the Spanish colonial era, we’re now jumping over to the time the Chinese took over as we visit the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House. It is known as one of the first few Chinese homes built in the Philippines. The place is filled with mementos from the era, including lanterns, clay jars, relics, and some touches of what’s left from the Spanish colonization. Upon entering its gates, you’ll see a pathway of greenery, old wooden structures, an even old set of staircases, wooden religious items, and there’s even furniture pieces that’ll bring you back in time.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Contact Number: (032) 266 2833
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/YapSandiegoAncestralHouse/
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: 155 Mabini St, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
- By Walking: Just a minute or two from the Heritage Monument, via Mabini Street, you’ll find the historically striking Yap-San Diego Ancestral House. There will also be photobooth or photo areas, especially during a cultural celebration in the city, so, you’ll definitely have a great keepsake from your visit.
Casa Gorordo Museum
This place is formerly the ancestral home of the Gorordo family until the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation took its ownership in 1980. From then, it was turned into a museum and became known for its exterior design where it features a “tisa” or tiled roof.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Contact Number: (032) 511 2663
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: casagorordomuseum.org
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/casagorordomuseum/
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: 35 Eduardo Aboitiz Street, Cebu City, Philippines
- By Walking: From the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House, go right til you arrive at the Eduardo Aboitiz Street. Just two minutes from the street corner, you’ll find the Casa Gorordo Museum immediately.
1730 Jesuit House
Just within the same neighborhood, you’ll find the 1730 Jesuit House where artifacts and relics can be seen. It is also one of the oldest museums in Cebu and is owned by a Chinese businessman known as Jaime Sy. Although its exteriors may seem like a warehouse, don’t be fooled because as you enter, you’ll see the beauty of history inside. Why is it called the Jesuit House? Well, because based on the items found inside and the photographs documented by Fr. William Repettu, the place used to be a headquarters for the Jesuits and based on the various coin collections found within the area, it was reported that the place could date as far back as the Ming Dynasty.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/1730JesuitHouse
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Zulueta St., Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
- By Walking: From the Casa Gorordo Museum, head back to the street going to the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House, then take a short walk along Mabini Street, heading in the direction of the Colon Obelisk. When you reach the first intersection, which is Zulueta Street, turn there. The museum will be located just before Alliance Hardware. If you’re unsure, feel free to ask at nearby shops for directions. Alternatively, keep an eye out for the distinctive wooden signage outside the museum; it’s quite easy to spot.
Magellan’s Cross
When discussing the history of the Philippines, people—whether Filipino or foreigners—often think of Magellan because he was the one who recorded his arrival in the country. To mark their presence and the start of Spanish colonization, Magellan and the Spaniards planted a large cross symbolizing the Christian faith they introduced to the local tribes and warriors. The question is: IS THE ORIGINAL CROSS STILL STANDING IN CEBU?
Well, that’s for you to find out as you visit the Magellan’s Cross. It is a structure which houses a gigantic wooden cross inside what looks like a gazebo. The interior of the structure is filled with paintings of historical times paired with religious concepts.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: P. Burgos St., Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
- By Walking: From the 1730 Jesuit House, head down the same street towards the Colon Obelisk. Continue walking straight until you reach P. Burgos Street. As you walk, you’ll pass the University of Southern Philippines Foundation. Keep going until you arrive at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño. You can either enter the church to pass through and exit towards the Magellan’s Cross or simply go around the church, as the Cross is located just behind and outside the building.
Plaza Independencia
Fun fact: The Plaza Independencia had two former names during the Spanish colonial era, the Plaza de Armas, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de María Cristina, and the Plaza Libertad when the Americans took over. But, when World War II began, a change of name was necessary to signify freedom; therefore, its new name became “Plaza Independencia.” Now, it has several historically significant monuments and is a public square for events and activities.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: MJ Cuenco Avenue, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
- By Walking: From Magellan’s Cross, turn left onto P. Burgos Street, then to Magallanes Street where you’ll immediately see the plaza. Just head straight for about 5 to 7 minutes. When you arrive at the street across the plaza, make sure to only use the designated pedestrian lanes to pass through the traffic.
Fort San Pedro
Located in Plaza Independencia, Fort San Pedro is a unique triangular fort from the 18th century. Inside, it’s more than just a historic site; it’s also a museum filled with fascinating war relics. You’ll see fourteen canons displayed around the fort, along with Spanish-era clothing, photos, and other historical items. For an extra touch of fun, staff dressed as Spanish soldiers greet you at the entrance, making your visit even more engaging and memorable!
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Plaza Independencia, Cebu, Philippines
- By Walking: Simply head over to the largest stone fort or structure that you can find within the area of the Plaza Independencia, and that’s the Fort San Pedro. Just prepare coins for the entrance fee as it can vary from Php 25.00 to Php 50.00, depending on the events or day.
National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu
This is the newest home of historical artifacts in Cebu. Just inaugurated last year, the National Museum of the Philippines in Cebu City is the 16th branch of NMP. It houses artworks, relics, rock displays, unique flora and fauna showcases, and many more about Cebu and the Philippines. The best part is that the museum is open for the public and without any fees to enjoy the captivating history inside.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Contact Number: 0919 077 9877
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: nationalmuseum.gov.ph
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nmpcebu/
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Former Malacañan sa Sugbo (Old Customs House), A. Pigafetta St., Cebu City, Cebu City, Philippines
- By Walking: The museum is located just outside the gates of Plaza Independencia. So, all you have to do is head out of the Plaza or follow the path heading towards SRP and in just a mere 3-minute walk, you’ll arrive at the museum.
So, Sugboanons, whether you’re with a date, a friend, or a day out with your family, these historical places will surely be one of the most memorable and educational walks you’ll have in Cebu. Share to us your experiences in the comments below once you’ve visited each of these historical landmarks!
