Exploring Vigan On Foot (Part 2)

Vigan's  full name at the time of its Spanish foundation was Villa Fernandina, or "Town of Ferdinand", in honor of Prince Ferdinand, the firstborn son of King Philip II of Spain. As the city grew, and the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia transferred to Vigan, it was later renamed Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan ("Ferdinand's City of Vigan").

The city was a coastal trading post long before the Spaniards arrived; Chinese traders sailing from the South China Sea came to Isla de Vigan (Island of Vigan) via the Mestizo River that surrounded it. 

This is the continuation of my previous blog: Exploring Vigan on Foot about the historical and cultural landmark that sets Vigan apart from other cities.

Bantay Bell Tower

The famous Bantay Tower is actually not a part of Vigan but is located in the nearby town of Bantay along the National Hi Way. It was built in 1591, and was said to be the people’s watchtower, part of the city’s defense that helps to alert against possible enemies. The tower is situated on top of a hill beside the San Agustin Church and stands approximately 40 ft. tall which offers a 360 degree view of Vigan City and some part of Ilocos Sur.

Dancing Fountain in Plaza Salcedo

One of the best place in Vigan to stay during the evening (7:30pm onwards), where a display of world class feature that showcase the dancing fountain- lasers and lights are synched to popular music tune and illuminates the fountains jetting all through the plaza.

Abel Weaver

The Abel Iloko is one of the oldest traditional craft in Vigan which is known throughout the country for their design and ingenuity. The Abel loom weaving still thrives to this day in five barangays namely Camangaan, Bedeng Daya, Mindoro, San Pedro and Cabaroan Daya.

Baluarte

The residence of former Governor Chavit Singson features an interactive mini zoo, souvenir shops, skeet shooting range, butterfly garden, pony ride, function hall and musuem. Visitors are given free admission and free use of facilities in the picnic area.

How to Get There:

1. Located in Ilocos Sur, you can ride a bus bound for Vigan City (Dominion, Partas, Viron Transit)