Vigan City: Reasons to Visit This Beautiful Place on Your Travel Bucket List

Whether you're a history enthusiast, foodie, or culture vulture, Vigan City is a lovely location that has plenty to offer everyone. This city, which is in the north of the Philippines, has a long history that began during the time of Spanish colonization. It is a must-visit location for any visitor because of its preserved architecture, delectable gastronomy, and cultural legacy.

Colonial Spanish architecture

The well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture of Vigan City is one of the main attractions. Old buildings, cobblestone streets, and traditional homes all reflect the city's distinctive fusion of Spanish and Asian elements. The Spanish-style homes and businesses that line Calle Crisologo in Vigan are a shining example of the colonial architecture of the area. Tourists may admire the view while taking a leisurely stroll along the street or perhaps riding in a calesa, a classic horse-drawn carriage, for a more authentic experience.

Delectable Food

Foodies will also like Vigan City. The pastry empanadas, which are loaded with meat and veggies and served with a hot vinegar dipping sauce, are well-known across the city. Another local favorite that shouldn't be missed is bagnet, a crispy pork dish. And for breakfast, try Vigan's take on longganisa, a spicy sausage often paired with eggs and garlic rice. Vigan-style chicharon, a crispy snack made from hog skin, and Vigan-style sinanglaw, a soup made from bovine entrails and bile, are further regional delicacies.

Historical Culture

Visitors also enjoy Vigan City's rich cultural history. The numerous museums and cultural institutions in the city are a testament to its extensive past. One of the main political families in the city, the Crisologo family is the subject of the Crisologo Museum, which is housed in a reconstructed ancestral home. Elpidio Quirino, the previous president of the Philippines, was born in Vigan, and the renovated Syquia Mansion Museum provides a look into his way of life. It is also worthwhile to visit the National Museum Ilocos Regional Museum Complex, which has displays on the geology, ecology, and archaeology of the area.

Festivals

Vigan City is renowned for having exciting events. Every April, the community celebrates the Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts, which highlights the local music, dancing, and crafts. A street dancing contest, a food market, and a procession of floats are all part of the festivities. Every January, the city also holds the Longganisa Festival, when guests may try several longganisa varieties and witness a longganisa-making competition.

In conclusion, Vigan City is a wonderful place that ought to be on everyone's list of must-visit places. It is a special and remarkable vacation because of its beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture, delectable food, rich cultural heritage, and exciting festivals. Pack your baggage, then fly to Vigan City to experience real Filipino culture and go back in time.