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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 Osmeņa residence holds some of General Douglas
MacArthur's memorabilia and the personal mementos of
Sergio Osmeņa, 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. |
