From North to South Bound!
The province of Ilocos Sur is where the Ilocos Region’s myriad of cultures and histories converge to become a living museum of a spirited past. A national shrine, a national landmark, a national museum, heritage museums, ancestral houses, period houses, cobble-stoned streets — they all share space in the timeless land of Ilocos Sur.
Found in the province is the historic town of Vigan, which was inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in November 1999. Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines and from China with those from Europe to create a unique culture and townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia. Its Kamestizoan District is replete with ancestral houses with ancient tiled roofs, massive hardwood floorings, ballustrades and azoteas in varying Spanish-Mexican-Chinese architectural styles.
Centuries-old Sta. Maria Church, declared a National Landmark, was used as a fortress during the Philippine Revolution of 1896. Tirad Pass, declared a National Shrine, had been the last stand of the Filipino Revolutionary Forces under General Emilio Aguinaldo during the same period. Bessang Pass served as the backdoor to General Yamashita’s last ditch defense during the last stage of World War II. — Vigan Tourism
Municipal Hall of Sinait, Ilocos Sur
Situated on the north west coast of Luzon the Dayvee Resort and Hotel provides a sanctuary to travelers from the city. The resort is surrounded by a quiet beach and rolling hills making it an ideal place to enjoy the sun and water.
Town Hall of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur
Cabugao Church is officially named as the Church of St. Mark the Evangelist. Its building started and ended in the Spanish period but was damaged by the earthquake in the 1880’s, and a fire in 1965 . Fortunately, it was not severely damaged both times and has been able to be restored by the townsfolk (Biyahero.net). At the left side of the main church is a large, five storey belltower while at the right side is the church convent.
Surf’s Up in Sabang, Cabugao.
Municipal Hall of San Juan, Ilocos Sur
