Vigan

Vigan,Ilocos Sur

Paoay Church and The Old City

The kalesas, cobblestone streets, and European architecture of houses bring so much of history.

Locals trace the origin of the name Paoay from the Ilocano phrase “Makapaway kami,” which means “we can stand alone.” 

Paoay is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historical St. Augustine Church, or more commonly known as the Paoay Church. Built in 1710, Paoay Church was designed based on an “earthquake baroque” style, which is associated with architecture needed to protect churches from being destructed when earthquake struck. 

Vigan, with its centuries-old edifices, is a breathing reminder of what was once a royal city.

One of the earliest Spanish settlements in the country, Vigan was founded in 1572 by Juan de Salcedo who patterned its design to that of Intramuros (Old Manila). It became the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia and was called Ciudad Fernandina in honor of King Ferdinand. 

Today, Vigan retains much of the patina of 18th century Castillan architecture as seen in some 150 stone houses which stand in the town's Mestizo District, notably Mena Crisologo Street. Many of these ancestral homes are still in good condition and some have been turned into cozy inns, museums, and souvenir shops.