Vigan : A Preserved Heritage City in Ilocos Sur Philipphines

I recently had the incredible opportunity to explore Vigan, one of the world's seven wonder cities and the oldest town in the Philippines. I booked a comprehensive travel package through a reputable tour guide agency, and I'm thrilled to share my experience with fellow adventurers looking for an unforgettable journey through history.

From the moment I arrived, I knew I had made the right choice in seeking out professional tour guide services. My local guide near me was a fountain of knowledge, bringing the rich tapestry of Vigan's past to life with every step we took. As we began our tour, I learned that Vigan was captured by the Spanish in 1572, and its name was derived from the word "bigaa." This historical tidbit was just the beginning of the fascinating facts I would discover throughout my stay.

The highlight of our tour was undoubtedly the famous Calle Crisologo, a 15th-century Spanish street that has been impeccably preserved. As we strolled down the cobblestone path, I felt as if I had stepped back in time. The street is now lined with antique houses, charming souvenir stores, and local restaurants that offer a taste of authentic Filipino cuisine. Our tour guide suggested visiting at night, and I'm so glad we did. The romantic lighting created the perfect ambiance for capturing silhouette photos against the backdrop of centuries-old architecture.

As our journey continued, we found ourselves immersed in the spiritual side of Vigan. It was Holy Week during my visit, and I learned that visiting different churches is a cherished tradition during this time. Our travel guide had meticulously planned a route that took us to some of the most stunning centuries-old churches I've ever seen. The intricate details of the Spanish Baroque architecture left me in awe, and the sense of peace within these sacred spaces was palpable.
One of the churches that stood out was the St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as Vigan Cathedral. Its imposing facade and beautiful interiors were a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the past. Our tour guide shared fascinating stories about the cathedral's history, including its role in the Philippine Revolution.

Another memorable stop was the Bantay Church and Bell Tower. The panoramic view from the top of the bell tower was breathtaking, offering a bird's eye view of the surrounding landscape. Our guide pointed out key landmarks and shared interesting anecdotes about the area's development over the centuries.

Throughout the tour, I was impressed by the depth of knowledge our guide possessed. They weren't just reciting facts; they were passionate about Vigan's history and culture, answering our questions with enthusiasm and often sharing personal insights that added a unique dimension to our experience.

Saint Augustine Church, Paoay,  it was founded in 1953. It was considered also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

St. Williams  Metropolitan Cathedral of  Laoag. Built-in 1580.  The church has an Italian Structure.

Cathedral of Vigan, Built-in 1841 also called Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral.  The burial place of the great Ilocano poet Leona Florentino and the house of the replica of miraculous  Santo Cristo Milagroso. 

As our tour came to an end, I reflected on the incredible journey we had embarked upon. The tour guide hiking through Vigan's historic streets, the insightful museum visits, and the spiritual experiences in ancient churches had all combined to create a truly unforgettable adventure. The travel guide had expertly balanced historical information with engaging storytelling, making every moment both educational and entertaining.

For anyone considering a trip to Vigan, I cannot recommend highly enough the value of booking through a reputable tour guide agency. The depth of experience and local knowledge they provide elevates the journey from a simple sightseeing trip to a profound exploration of culture and history.

See the video below on how to travel to the Philippines.