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Published April 16, 2025 9:19pm
Cebu City, also known as the Philippines' Queen City of the South, boasts of a vibrant culture that continues to thrive despite its growth as a center for commerce, industry, and education.
According to Nikko Sereno's report on "24 Oras," Wednesday, a guided heritage tour, which can be completed in around 10 hours, was launched to further introduce the city's rich history to visitors.
Here are eight historical and cultural landmarks in Cebu as seen in the latest episode of Balikbayan, the GMA Integrated News Summer Pastyalan special.
1. Fort San Pedro in Plaza Independencia
Fort San Pedro, the oldest and smallest fort in the country, is located at Plaza Independencia. The unique fortress features a triangular wall design with three bastions.
2. Magellan's Cross
Just a short distance from Fort San Pedro lies Magellan's Cross. The wooden cross was planted by Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan upon his arrival in the country in 1521.
"When we speak of Cebu City, ito po talaga tatatak sa mga Cebuano at Pilipino, dahil dito itinayo 'yung cross na simbolo ng Kristiyanismo dito sa Cebu," Cebu City tour guide Dilfer Rogero said.
3. Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño
Beside Magellan's Cross stands the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño, which houses the oldest religious relic of the Philippines.
"This is the oldest church dito at dito rin natagpuan 'yung Sto. Niño, nahanap ng mga tauhan ni Miguel Lopez de Legazpi noon," Rogero said.
4. Casa Gorordo Museum
Casa Gorordo Museum is an example of a "balay na tisa," or house with a tiled roof. Its staircase has 13 steps, influenced by old Chinese tradition, symbolizing prosperity.
5. The Jesuit House
The Jesuit House, considered the oldest dated house in the Philippines, was reportedly built in 1730.
"This house is the oldest dated house in the Philippines. Ni-restore po ito, ang kanilang bahay. 2008 po, in-open po nila sa public as a museum," staff member Cris Anne Joy Abella said.
6. Parian Heritage Monument
Built in 1997, the Parian Heritage Monument serves as a commemoration of the significant historical events that have shaped Cebu, including Magellan's arrival, the Battle of Mactan, and even the revolution.
7. Calle Colon
Calle Colon is called the Heart of Cebu City because of its location. The old street was built in 1565.
8. Freedom Park
Freedom Park is a historical site where political campaign sorties and religious debates took place in the past. It is near the Carbon City Market, which is the oldest market in Central Visayas. —Carby Rose Basina/MGP, GMA Integrated News
