Happy Feet, Delighted Heart | A Walk Through the Town of Vigan

Tara kai-Vigan!

Walking through the cobblestone street while surrounded by historic structures gives a classic feeling of delight and amazement. And with this, I can say that being born in Vigan is such a wonderful gift. I get to experience and see its never fading beauty and wonder frequently, and it's as if it is reminding me constantly of its history. But don't worry, because as they say, sharing is caring, and so today, I'll bring you to the heart of Vigan.

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

This is Vigan Cathedral otherwise known as the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. It's a relic from the past. Did you know that in 1572, the same place where the cathedral is situated, there was once a chapel made up of wood and straw? However, it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1619 and by fire also in the year 1739.

When the seat of the Diocese of Nueva Segovia was transferred from Lal-lo Cagayan to Vigan sometime in 1758, It has become a cathedral. Many of its original interior designs can still be seen, such as the twelve altars.

Note: This particular image was photographed before.

But if you have noticed, there are some damages brought about by the earthquake that recently happened in August. Though a natural disaster bruised it, faith in God will never end and fade.

A few meters away from the south of the cathedral is the octagonal bell tower. It's not yet safe to come near as debris may fall.

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, indeed, is more than just an essential link to the past. It's also part of the heritage of Vigan - something that instills in everybody's mind about its historical past, progressive improvement in the present, and a positive outlook in the future.

Next is Plaza Salcedo.

It features the 17th-century San Juan de Salcedo monument. As stated on the marker, it is the place of execution of the first revolutionary woman in the Philippines, known by the name Gabriela Silang.

The lagoon was built sometime in 1970 and presently, a show called dancing fountain can be seen here at night. And it used to happen from 7:30 to 8:00 every night. I am not just sure if it's already back in its regular show.

On the other end, a big sign of the name of the province, which is Ilocos Sur, can be seen.

It's just several meters away from Ilocos Sur Capitol.

By the way, just a few walks away from the marker is where the late President Elpidio Quirino's monument stands. Yes, the first Ilocano president was him, and he was born in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

As you walk to the south, you'll also see this:

Vigan City was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It happened on December 2, 1999. This means that Vigan is one of the sites that are worthy of protection as a world treasure, not just for being special but for universal value as well.

Indeed, Vigan is home to a rich culture and history. It resonates everywhere you are. As a Bigueño, being proud is an understatement. It's more than that.

tak takatak takatak

Until next time!