Cebu is an island filled with deep history as well as the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines and is one of the most vibrant places you can travel to. Often referred to as the “Queen City of the South,” a visit to this island always starts within Cebu City itself. Despite being here a couple of times before, getting to have another look is an absolute treat, despite the short time I had to wander around.
While most people mark their end with a cross, I marked the start of my tour with . After all, it is a significant historical landmark that noted the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines, and the start of a new chapter in our history and culture. The original cross that was planted by Magellan himself in 1521 is encased in Tindalo wood and is housed in a small chapel.
The inside is filled with intricate paintings mostly depicting the arrival of Magellan and the first baptism in Cebu. Before, when I was younger and came in with my family, we could light a candle and say a short prayer within its walls. Now, you are encouraged to not light it and just place the candle underneath the cross and say a prayer instead.
What makes Cebu City interesting is the architecture you can find within this city. Adjacent to Magellan’s Cross stands a National Cultural Treasure, the . One of the oldest churches in the Philippines, the church has a Baroque-style bell tower, but upon first glance, it has a solid facade that blends Muslim, Romanesque, and Neo-Classical feature.