Historical
& Cultural Heritage
As the site of the oldest Spanish settlement
in the country, modern Cebu retains traces of its colonial heritage.
Centuries-old churches and Antillan houses, hig-rises and modern buildings
jostle for space along the tree-lined streets.
Fort
San Pedro, the smallest and oldest bastion in the country,
was built in 1738 to repel Muslim raiders. At times, it served as
a stronghold for Filipino revolutionaries, as a US army barracks,
and as a prison camp during the Japanese occupation. Today, it is
a historical park.
Lapu-Lapu's Monument in Mactan
Island, was erected in honor of the first Filipino Chieftain
who fought for his people's freedom. Adjacent to Lapu-Lapu's monument
is Magellan's marker, a tribute to the Portuguese explorer slain by
Lapu-Lapu on that same spot.
Casa Gorordo, once the
residence of the first Catholic bishop of Cebu, has been restored as
a reminder of a more gracious bygone era. Its opulent halls house cultural
and historical relics of the 18th century, a collection of old prints,
and contemporary works of art. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday,
9 am to 5 pm. A modest entrance fee is collected.
The Osmeña residence
holds some of General Douglas MacArthur's memorabilia
and the personal mementos of Sergio Osmeña,
the first President of the Philippine Republic after World War II.
The University of San Carlos
Musuem within the city proper houses a wide collection of interesting
finds from all over the country. Its exhibits of religious relics, archaeological
and ethnic artifacts, botanical and zoological specimens and other finds
are a must for history buffs and curio enthusiasts.
Magellan's Cross, the
replica of which contains the remnants of the original one planted by
Ferdinand Magellan on Cebu's shores, stands within a wayside shrine
commemorating the conversion of the first Filipinos to Christianity.
Ceiling murals depict the first Catholic mass celebrated on Philippine
shores.
The Cebu Capitol, seat
of provincial government, is a magnificent edifice of pre-war vintage.
From the Avenue of Flags, its dome can be seen rising white
against the backdrop of mountains in the distance.
