Nowadays Cebu is famous as “the queen of the south”: but long before the Spanish settlements, Cebu was actually known as “Sugbu” or “Zubu”. Cebu used to be the trading point for many countries’ merchants like China, Thailand, East Indies, and many more. People from different countries and cultures always impressed the locals of Cebu yet they managed to hold their specific essence.
Being the Land of old catholic culture, Cebu has some renowned rich and beautiful heritages in it. If you are one of them who can dig in the past for hours then available cebu tour packages will certainly give you a ride to the past. The old walls, magical streets, gigantic monuments, and astonishing sculptures will take your breath away for a while. Though being a land of living history Cebu has historical landmarks scattered everywhere around the city. Yet there are a few that you cannot afford to miss.
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- Magellan’s Cross: Magellan’s cross had been placed by Ferdinand Magellan on 21st April 1521 in the name of King Charles 1st. The cross itself is now located next to Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu. It is one of the oldest Roman churches and a religious point for Catholics. Tourists can visit here any time between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- San Pedro: San Pedro is also very popular among tourists for its triangular shape. Though it was the oldest and smallest fort in Cebu, now visited by tourists as a Historical park. Even a part of this park has been converted into a museum so that visitors can enjoy the Spanish culture of the 16th century.
- Cebu Heritage Monuments: Cebu Heritage is presented its rich culture and historical events to the world. It was built from July 1997 to December 2000 near San Pedro fort. The entire masterpiece was created with bronze.
- Yap- Sandiego Ancestral House: This Ancestral house was started building in 1675 and continued till 1700. It is one of the ironic historical points that witnessed the blend of Spanish and Chinese cultures. Its delicate yet strong architecture of wood and coral stones, strong red roof, and breathtaking interior will make you wonder about the construction, technique, and test of the owner. Talking about the owner it was built for Don Juan Yap and his growing family. It is still considered the oldest Chinese house in Cebu and represented the blend of Asian-European culture.
- Museo de Sugbo: It was actually built as the provincial jail of Cebu in 1869. Museo de Sugbo is not included in our list because of its use. Rather we are including it because it is the first piece designed and built by Domingo de Escondrillas, the first architect of Cebu.
If you are addicted to history and can skip hours by digging yourself into that old architecture you can certainly consider one of the Cebu tour packages. Its old alleys, massive mansion, old culture, and historical importance will take you back to the 16th century.
