The Journey of Vigan

        Vigan, located in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Founded in the 16th century, Vigan is a blend of European, Mexican, Chinese, and Filipino influences, creating a one-of-a-kind cultural and architectural heritage. Before the Spanish arrived, Vigan was already an important trading center, situated at the delta of the Abra River on Luzon’s northwestern coast. The heritage site covers 17.25 hectares and follows a traditional Spanish checkerboard street layout with two main plazas: Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos. Surrounding these plazas are important landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, the City Hall, and the Provincial Capitol. Unlike Spanish colonial towns in Latin America, Vigan has strong Chinese, Ilocano, and Filipino influences, especially in the historic Mestizo district, which was home to wealthy families of mixed Chinese and Ilocano ancestry. This area contains 233 historic buildings along a grid of 25 streets.

        Most of Vigan’s buildings were constructed between the mid-18th to late 19th centuries. These two-story houses are made of brick and wood, with steep roofs inspired by Chinese architecture. The upper floors feature capiz shell windows that slide open for better ventilation. The ground floors were traditionally used as shops, offices, and storage areas, while families lived on the upper floors. Vigan also has important public buildings that show a mix of different architectural styles.

        Vigan has retained its colonial charm, including its street layout and building design. However, over time, many houses have been modified for modern use, with interiors divided into smaller apartments and commercial spaces. Some buildings have been abandoned or left in poor condition. A lack of traditional materials like wood, brick, and lime plaster has led to the use of modern materials like cement and galvanized iron roofs, affecting the original look of the town.

        Despite these challenges, awareness of the importance of preserving Vigan has grown significantly since it was declared a heritage site. Many traditional construction techniques are being revived, helping to restore and maintain Vigan’s unique cultural and historical identity.

 

References and/or sources:

UNESCO World Heritage Centre.(1999).Historic City of Vigan.https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/502/

LAIDBACK TRIP.(2023, April 8).Vigan Guide: Visit A Colonial City In Philippines.

.https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.laidbacktrip.com%2Fposts%2Fwhat-to-do-vigan-ilocos-sur-philippines&psig=AOvVaw2kH2bLkoqYHfmXI0WWe6ts&ust=1739072435489000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCPiC17nqtIsDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI

AvianQuests.(2017, February 22).Vigan City's Plaza Salcedo Dancing Fountains.https://go

o.gl/maps/gAB4N7ydNDN2