In and Around the Cobblestone Streets of Vigan

I always love to travel and explore old towns, old structures and historic sites. And the city of Vigan is on top of my list next to Zamboanga City.

Vigan is the oldest surviving Spanish colonial city in the country. And when you explore this old city you can do it by walking in and around the famous Calle Crisologo. The city is a typical Spanish city where the public squares/plaza, church and seat of government were located next to each other.

During our visit, I called it "sulit" that even for just 3 hours in the city we were able to see and experience a number of interesting sights and activities.

PLAZA SALCEDO

During our, it is also the Anniversary of the city of Vigan, our vehicle parked beside the Plaza. Noticeable is the obelisk in the center of the plaza, it was named after the Spanish Conquistador Juan de Salcedo, who explored Northern Luzon in 1572-1573.

One interesting fact, Gabriela Silang, the only Filipina who staged a revolt against Spain, was publicly hanged in the plaza.

PLAZA MAESTRO

Bust of Maestro Seling in the center of Plaza Maestro

Located just across Plaza Salcedo, it is named after Jose Sebastian "Maestro Seling" Singson. It is a Commercial Complex, its design is a reminiscent of old central plaza.

CALEZA RIDE AROUND VIGAN

Calesas beside Plaza Salcedo

I find it so romantic to go around in this mode of transport, and in Vigan yes there are a lot of Caleza and friendly "kutsero," who also serves as a personal tour guide. So funny about our Mamang Kutsero is that "he is so showbiz" with his tidbits of information, from the location of a Judy Ann's movie to the house of their bachelor congressman Ronald Singson......

CALLE CRISOLOGO

All visitors to Vigan look for this street the moment they step in Vigan. It was recognized by UNESCO as 1 of the 8 Heritage Sites in the Philippines.

This cobblestone street is named after an Ilocano writer Mena Pecson Crisologo, located in the Mestizo District of Vigan, where most of Chinese-Filipino merchants built their homes.

Today, Calle Crisologo still preserved it's old world charm, not just as a tourist destination but as a commercial center for visitors who want to have a piece of Vigan's products.

SYQUIA MANSION

A heritage house recognized by the National Historical Institute of the Philippines. And my recent trip to Cebu City, I learned that Syquia Mansion is one of two Chinese Houses in Philippines included in the book entitled, Chinese Houses Outside China.

It is located in Quirino Blvd. cor. Salcedo St. and this colonial mansion is the house of former President Elpidio Quirino.

HOUSE OF RONALD SINGSON

Not a historical site but an interesting information to know the house of a very controversial bachelor congressman of Ilocos Sur. The house is Singson's family old house, located is Quirino Blvd.

MUSEO SAN PABLO