Cebu is known for its many tourist, cultural, and historical spots. Not only is the island known for its nice white sand beaches and delicious food, it is also known for its very important role in the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Today, we’ll list down the Five Most Recognizable Landmarks of Cebu.
5
Taoist Temple
Beverly Hills Subdivision, Lahug
At number 5 is the Taoist Temple in Beverly Hills Subdivision. The temple, built in 1972 by the Cebuano Chinese community, is open even to non-worshippers. Most parts of the temple, except for the prayer chambers, are open to the public.
The temple is one of the most favorite destinations of both foreign and local tourists. In fact, the temple is almost always on the itinerary of students on guided educational tours in Cebu.
The temple is popular for its wishing well, a small replica of the great wall of China, and a commanding view of the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu.
4
Lapu-Lapu Shrine
Mactan Island
At number 4 is the shrine erected in honor of the Philippines’ first known hero – Datu Lapu-Lapu. The huge statue, which is situated in the Island of Mactan, stands on the very shores were the Battle of Mactan transpired in 1521.
During this very well-known battle, the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who came to the Philippines in search of the Spice Islands, met his untimely death after a short sword fight with the native chieftain.
Because of his bravery, Datu Lapu-Lapu would go down in history as the first Filipino who successfully fought against European rule.
The shrine is very popular to tourists not only because of the site’s cultural and historical significance but also because of the line of restaurants called SUTUKIL which sits next to the shrine. Different kinds of souvenirs are also sold inside the compound of the shrine.
3
Cebu Provincial Capitol
Baranggay Capitol Site, Cebu City
Occupying the number 3 spot is the Cebu Provincial Capitol. The Cebu Provincial Capitol is located at the intersection of N. Escario Street and Osmeña Boulevard. The Capitol is where the head of the Cebu Province – Governor Gwendolyn Garcia – holds office.
The CPC is one of the oldest structures in Cebu. In fact, it is considered one of the few remaining survivors of the World War bombings.
The CPC compound houses the Palace of Justice as well as other important agencies of the provincial government.
Tourists can visit the CPC and get free brochures, booklets, and even VCDs about the different services and destinations in the Province of Cebu.
2
Fuente Osmeña
Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City
Occupying the second spot is the Fuente Osmeña. This landmark, which means, Osmeña Fountain, was named after the late President Sergio Osmeña who was a native of Cebu.
The fountain, often considered the ‘Heart of Cebu’ is immediately surrounded by a tree-lined park which is sometimes referred to as the ‘Fuente Osmeña Circle.
The park is often the venue of Sinulog nightly festivities, demonstrations, feeding programs, and promotional gimmicks of different local and international companies.
The Osmeña Fountain can be seen in the 50-Peso bill.
1
Magellan’s Cross Kiosk
Cebu City
Sitting on the top spot is Cebu’s most recognizable structure – the kiosk of Magellan’s Cross.
The cross inside the kiosk was planted by the same portuguese Datu Lapu-lapu killed in Mactan Island – Ferdinand Magellan. The kiosk sits right next to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
It was believed that the cross possessed miraculous powers. So, to protect it from people who took small fragments of the cross during their visits, what remained of the original cross was encased in another wooden cross. Etched on the ceiling of the kiosk is a mural of the first Christian mass.
The kiosk of the Cross of Magellan is the ultimate symbol of the Roman Catholicism in the country. In fact, it placed Cebu on the world map as the seat of Christianity in Asia. The kiosk is also used as the current symbol of the City of Cebu. The image of the structure can be found in the seal of the city.
Beautiful Cebu! Vincent, read on, a guy who has his own blog, and said that there’s not much to see in Cebu. 🙁
what about top beaches in cebu?
cant wait to see all again.. i miss cebu….
Hi Ley! It’s been awhile since I’ve been blog-active. Too much work and so little time left for play…oh well. But I am so looking forward to going home again this December. Hey, I heard Satch is going to London. Can’t he come over here in Stockholm as well for some Swedish fun?
ahhh !!! lovely, Magellan’s Cross kiosk is No. 1
Kinsa man ang artist nga nag-paint sa mural sa Magellans Cross kiosk?
i just love your shot at fuente bai…very majestic!
hi! Im Harry po from Unang Hirit GMA 7. Gusto ko lang po sanag hingin ang inyong permission regarding photos. Gagamitin po namin siya sa aming segment. And we will acknowledge you naman po and give credits. Thank you!
All right. Someone already emailed me bout it