Planning to discover different heritage places in Samboan, Cebu? Then here’s a guide for you!
Samboan is not only full of beautiful waterfalls and natural attractions, they also have historic heritage sites that you can visit to get to know the island’s stories of the past.
Here are some of the places that you can go to in Samboan for a trip back in time:
St. Michael Archangel Church
The St. Michael Archangel Church in Samboan is an architectural gem with its four pilasters, arched entryway, and intricate decorative relief featuring the seal of the Spanish royalty. As one of the oldest parishes in the country, this historic church is protected by the National Historical Commission as a “National Heritage Structure.” Every 29th of September, the church comes alive with the vibrant Saksak Festival, a joyous celebration honoring the patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel. It is an annual event that combines rich history, cultural heritage, and festive spirits of the Samboan residents!
Nearby the church, you can also find other old stone structures known as the San Sebastian Stone Walls.
Campanario de Antigua
Also known as the Spanish Watchtower of Samboan, is made up of coral stones that withstood numerous disasters and calamities. Its main purpose was to be a place to guard and watch over the area against Moro invaders who approach the island. Hailed as the tallest watchtower in Cebu and perhaps the most preserved among all.
The topmost level of the watchtower offers a breathtaking view of the island and the surrounding seas, making it one of the best views in Samboan.
Escala de Jacobe
Connected to the Campanario de Antigua is the Escala de Jacobe or the St. Jacob’s Ladder. It is a stairway with 147 steps made of stones built in the 1800’s. The stairs are heading to the watchtower above the town and on top, you can get one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Tañon Strait.
Museo de Samboan
If you want to dig deeper into the rich history and culture of Samboan, then the museum is the place to go! At the Museo de Samboan, you will be welcomed by artifacts and items telling the story of the Samboan’s way of life. Initially, the place was a municipal building but it was soon turned into a museum when a new structure was built to be the Municipal Hall.
WWII Volunteers Monument
At the very heart of the Samboan Poblacion is a structure built to commemorate the honorable people, volunteers, and donors who stood during World War II and gave their lives for the country.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Samboan, Cebu, Philippines
- BY COMMUTE: Head to the South Bus Terminal and take a bus bound to Barangay Tangbo, Samboan. From there, you can hire a tricycle to take you around town. You can also book a van who offers tours around Cebu for a whole package of day adventure.
- BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Samboan, Cebu” as your destination.
So, Sugboanons, share with us your experience in visiting the Samboan heritage sites in the comments below! And if you want to go to other places, then check out these natural attractions in Samboan, Cebu!
