The province of Ilocos Sur is where the Ilocos Region’s myriad of cultures and histories converge to become a living museum of a spirited past. A national shrine, a national landmark, a national museum, heritage museums, ancestral houses, period houses, cobble-stoned streets – they all share space in the timeless land of Ilocos Sur.
Vigan holds a unique place in the Philippines. It’s history runs deep and can be seen in the Spanish style architecture and cobblestone streets. Prior to the Spanish colonial period, Vigan was a major trading port, its location on Northern Luzon made it a convenient stopping off point for Chinese merchant ships.
Vigan shows that the history of the Philippines is as diverse as its present. The deeply rooted Spanish influence is on full display in Vigan and its environs. Even if history does not interest you, the atmosphere is Vigan is un-missable.
The kalesa is still very popular in Vigan, as it is also the only way of public transport that is allowed in the old Spanish heritage city. The kalesa is a horse-drawn carriage and it was introduced during the 18th century by the Spanish officials and the nobles for transportation purposes.
Vigan holds a unique place in the Philippines. It’s history runs deep and can be seen in the Spanish style architecture and cobblestone streets. Prior to the Spanish colonial period, Vigan was a major trading port, its location on Northern Luzon made it a convenient stopping off point for Chinese merchant ships.
Vigan shows that the history of the Philippines is as diverse as its present. The deeply rooted Spanish influence is on full display in Vigan and its environs. Even if history does not interest you, the atmosphere is Vigan is un-missable.
The kalesa is still very popular in Vigan, as it is also the only way of public transport that is allowed in the old Spanish heritage city. The kalesa is a horse-drawn carriage and it was introduced during the 18th century by the Spanish officials and the nobles for transportation purposes.
Rich Filipino business owners, also named ''The Ilustrados'', did not only just the kalesa for traveling but also as a way to transport their trading goods.
Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia.
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