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Cebu City, capital of the island of Cebu (Central Visayas) is famous for its colonial legacy and for being the gateway for many of the travelers who seek to know the area of the islands of the Visayas or islands such as Malapascua, Bantayan, Camotes , Bohol or Siquijor or looking to know the southern island destinations such as Osbol or Moalboal. Although for many it is a passing city, it is true that Cebu City offers many points of interest to know.
Cebu City
Cebu City in Visayas (Pilipinas)
Cebu City guide
What to do in Cebu City
CEBU HERITAGE MONUMENT
The whole history of the city is reflected in this monument. Located in the historic center of the city, the Cebu Heritage Monument depicts scenes from different historical moments of the city such as the baptism of Rajah Humabon, a procession of the Holy Child, a Roman Catholic mass and the battle of Mactan between Lapu-Lapu and Fernando of Magallanes. The people represented in the monument include the late President Sergio Osmena Sr, born in Cebu himself and Blessed Pedro Calungsod, a great Filipino martyr who is believed to have been born in the city. The construction of the monument began in July 1997 and was completed in December 2000.
BASILICA OF THE HOLY CHILD
The Basilica of the Holy Child is the most important monument in the whole city. Built in 1565 it is the oldest church in the Philippines. Inside it houses the famous Statue of the Holy Child. This image of the child Jesus is highly respected by the local people for whom they feel a great devotion. The Basilica of Santo Niño is built on the point where the expedition of Miguel López de Legazpi recovered the image after 40 years owned by Rajah Humabon who had been appropriated after the death of Ferdinand Magellan and the expulsion of his fleet.
CRUZ DE MAGALLANES
Located inside a small hermitage next to the Basilica of Santo Niño, the Cross of Magallanes pays homage to the famous navigator of Portuguese origin.
STRONG OF SAN PEDRO
Another point of interest to know the colonial legacy of Cebu City is the Fort of San Pedro. Founded in 1565, it served as a defensive fortress for the troops of Miguel López de Legazpi. Originally built in wood, in 1722 it was completely rebuilt in stone giving it the look it has come to today. Like all the forts of colonial style, the Fort of San Pedro stands out for its great defensive walls, its towers and its canyons facing the sea.
TAOIST TEMPLE
Historically the city of Cebu always housed a large Chinese community. From many years before the arrival of the Spaniards, the ancient city of Cebu maintained commercial relations with the Chinese empire. Built in 1972, it is the most important Chinese temple in the city.
YAP SANDIEGO ANCESTRAL HOUSE
The Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House is considered the oldest house in all of Cebu City. Residence of a famous Chinese merchant, it was built in the year 1675. Inside it exhibits typical objects of the house. Its historical value crosses the city of Cebu itself, because the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House is also considered as the Chinese-style private home better preserved outside of China itself.
PUBLIC MARKET TABOAN
Considered as the most important public market in the city, Taboan is the ideal place to enjoy the local atmosphere of a typical market. In Taboan you can find all kinds of fresh products but especially the famous Danggit or Rabbit Fish, one of the most popular meals in Cebu.
TOPS LOOKOUT
Located in the nearby mountains that rounda Cebu City, the Tops Lookout is the best place to contemplate the visits of the city and watch the sunset. The complex stands out for its strange architecture and circular shapes.
Accommodation in Cebu City
Cebu has a wide range of accommodation for all types of travelers, from luxury hotels on the beach, to hostels for backpacker's pocket. Here are a couple of recommendations:
Near the airport, good, nice and cheap: Little Norway Guesthouse
Near the harbor and with a pool: One Central Hotel
Climate in Cebu City
The climate in Cebu City is hot, oppressive, windy, and overcast. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 75°F to 90°F and is rarely below 73°F or above 93°F.
The best time of year to visit Cebu City for hot-weather activities is from early January to mid April.
