Joanna Marie O. Santos
July 28, 2022

From the first step of Spaniards, from all the wars, revolutions, defeats, and victories, to having the freedom we enjoy today– Visayas witnessed it all. The moment that Ferdinand Magellan discovered the region during the 13th century, Visayas was already bound to become a home for historical spots and landmarks.   Whether you're a history buff or a traveler looking to revisit the past, we have the top 10 historical spots to visit in the Visayas to help satisfy your craving for knowledge.  

Brief History of Visayas

  While the Visayas was the first region discovered by westerners, we can trace its history and culture back even before the Spaniards came. It wasn't until Ferdinand Magellan discovered the Philippines after he landed in Homonhon Islet, Near Samar, in 1521 that they put the Island on the map.   Natives, however, weren't as welcoming to the mission of Spaniards to convert them to Roman Catholics. The battle of Mactan came to fruition as Lapu-Lapu refused to surrender to Spain, ultimately leading to the explorer's death.   Lapu-Lapu's success delayed the Spanish conquest for over forty years. However, it was apparent that Spain was persistent in their mission to colonize the country. Over the next few decades, Spanish expeditions will be dispatched. They will later lead to the successful colonization of the Visayas and the entire country for 333 years. By the 18th and 19th centuries, battles and revolution grew prominent in the region as it was in other parts of the country to fight for freedom from the hands of Americans, Japanese, and Spaniards.   At present, Visayas is the tourism hub of the Philippines. Its natural wonders and its rich history and culture keep attracting tourists from all over the world.   Take a tour and time travel to the region's glorious past by looking at these 10 historical spots to visit in the Visayas Region.  

Top 10 Historical Spots to Visit in the Visayas Region

Magellan’s Cross

  Image from ZEN Rooms[/caption]   Magellan’s Cross in Cebu is one of the national cultural treasures of the Philippines. It’s said to have the remains of the first cross Ferdinand Magellan planted when he set foot on the island of Homonhon, Samar. The place serves as a historic symbol marking the birth of Christianity in the Philippines.  

Mactan Shrine

Image from Cebu City Tour[/caption]   Established as a national shrine, the grounds where this marvelous shrine stand is said to be the approximate location of the historic Battle of Mactan, where Lapu-Lapu defeated Ferdinand Magellan. Now, it hosts two monuments dedicated to both iconic figures.  

The Molo Mansion, Iloilo

Image from TripAdvisor[/caption]   The Molo Mansion gives a glimpse of classical Philippine colonial architecture. Built in 1920, the mansion housed Manila’s judge of the court and hosted presidents such as Manuel L. Quezon, and Sergio Osmena during their trips to the city. Marvel at its fine architecture, and lush green surroundings as you take a walk back to the American period.  

Guisi Lighthouse

Image from Iloilo Today[/caption]   The Guisi Lighthouse once served and guided mariners passing by Iloilo and Guimaras Strait. Now, it serves as an attraction to those looking to marvel at our rich past. Built in the 18th century, The Guisi Lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse in the Philippines. It rewards those who trek to reach it with a picturesque view of the beach and ocean.  

The Ruins, Negros Occidental

Image from Culture Trip[/caption]   Another marvelous architecture that stood the test of time. The Ruins was built in the 1900s by Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson for his Portuguese wife Maria Lacson, who died during the birth of their 11th child. It features Italianate architecture and in its columns etched the letter M, Mariano’s ode to his forever love, Maria.  

San Sebastian Cathedral

Image from Lakad Pilipinas[/caption]   There’s something marvelous about the architecture of stone churches, and San Sebastian Cathedral is no exception. Despite being built during the 1900s, its history stretches back to 1825, when it was made only of wood. Now, the church is a popular tourist attraction and religious site for those who want to admire its beauty or pray to its patron, Saint Sebastian.  

Fort San Pedro

Image from the Lonely Planet[/caption]   Fort San Pedro (Also known as Fuerto de San Pedro) is a defense structure built by the Spaniards during the colonization era in 1738. Made of wood at first, it was only after Miguel Lopez de Legazpi that it was made into a stone fort to repel Muslim Raiders. During the Philippine Revolution, it was attacked by Filipinos and used as a stronghold. Today it now stands as the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines.  

MacArthur Leyte Landing Memorial National Park

Image from Vigattin Tourism[/caption]   One of the National Park of the Philippines, MacArthur Leyte Landing Memorial National Park commemorates the Largest naval battle of World War II, The Battle of Leyte Gulf. The statues signify the landing of General Douglas McArthur as the start of a campaign to help liberate the Philippines from Japanese Occupation. It’s now a significant tourist attraction Leyte offers.  

Moro Tower

Image from Silent Gardens[/caption]   Built in 1814, the Moro Tower served as a fort to protect the town from invading Moros (Pirates) and colonizers. Although not as popular as the other items on the list, this tower is still worth visiting as it provides a glimpse of the life of people during the 1800s.  

Mount Carmel Hill

Image from Bohol.ph[/caption]   One of the oldest tourist destinations in Bohol. Mount Carmel Hill once was a home of a church that was burned down during the Philippine Revolution. Only the concrete tower remains as it stands tall, merely guarding the whole town it oversees.  

The Importance of Visiting Historical Landmarks

  Historical landmarks are roots that connect us to the past. It's evidence of life before us. Visiting historical sites help us understand a historical event and allow us to engage with it by seeing it with our own eyes.   It helps us discover our origins; it's some sort of time travel where we get to experience a life we never lived. Depending on the historical context of the place, it may evoke anger, sadness, pride, and happiness.   The Visayas is genuinely one of a kind. Suppose you’re interested to learn more about our past and experiencing it with your own eyes. In that case, Visayas is the perfect place to get a glimpse of the Philippines’ rich culture and history.