Vigan City, the only Heritage City in the Philippines, now officially one of the the Seven New Wonder Cities.
Vigan is one of the oldest towns in the Philippines and during the Spanish rule, was a very important political and military center. The old town is regarded a World Heritage Site. It is a unique place with streets blocked off from traffic, horse and carriage roaming around the cobblestone streets with old Spanish and Chinese colonial architecture that adds romance to this city . The bloodline that the people of Vigan are known for is called Biguenos…a mix of Chinese and Filipino blood.
The following are the must things to see,do and or experience while in this city.
These were the things I did and what made them so memorable for me.
2. Take a stroll to Plaza Salcedo, and you may want to take pictures of all the structures around this plaza. The provincial capitol is there, St. Paul’s cathedral, a beautiful fountain has also been constructed, and even the commercial buildings are interesting as well.
3. Go to near-by Bantay Belfry and St. Augustine Church. It’s a very picturesque bell tower. You may also visit the Chapel by the Ruins which is beside the church. You can even go to the top and have a scenic view of the rural areas near Vigan and Bantay’s surprisingly picture-perfect cemetery view
7. Try your hands on Pottery (pinagburnayan) – If you decide to take the Calesa tour, ask your guide to take you to the pottery makers. Once there, you may be able to witness a piece of pottery being made or try it yourself!!
8. Hidden Gardens -having a fascination about plants, I did appreciate how this garden was created and maintained. If you do have enough time, there is a nice cozy cafe inside, where you could sip on some juice and enjoy some home made empanadas. (Even there comfort room is uniquely made).