Discover
Discover
Vigan, in Ilocos Sur, was established in the 16th century. UNESCO calls it the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its cobbled streets and rows of old houses give it a character all its own.
History
History
Vigan's architecture reflects cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe coming together. Chinese merchants played a major role in the town's trade, and many houses combine several styles and building methods.
People & Culture
People & Culture
Old Vigan houses often have a brick ground floor and a timber upper floor, with sliding windows of capiz shell suited to the humid heat. For us, each house records how people of different origins learned from one another to live in the same climate.
Living Heritage
Living Heritage
Kalesa horse carriages still roll through the old town, traditional jar potteries are still at work, and many residents still live in the historic houses. Vigan is a heritage town with everyday life still going on.
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