Cebu is one of the most developed provinces in the Philippines. It’s located in the heart of the country’s commercial and industrial hub – the Central Visayas region. The province has six component cities and more than forty municipalities divided into six legislative districts. Cebu City, Cebu’s capital, is considered the oldest city in the country and is home to the oldest settlements established by the Spaniards in the early 1500s.
Architectural Marvels you need to see when in Cebu
With the industrialization setting base in the Philippines in the late 18th century, Cebu City is one of the cities that benefited from infrastructural developments and technological advancements in the country. Through the years, Cebu became more industrialized with several investors (both local and international) flocking to the area and its promising islands.
Cebu has some of the most iconic architectural marvels that clearly narrate the country’s history. From the ancient and colonial buildings to the modern cloud-gazing skyscrapers; Cebu has all the beauty that meets and attract the naked eyes. Below are some of the most alluring structural marvels you can’t afford to miss in your next itinerary.
Cebu’s Skyline
The Horizons 101
This is the tallest skyscraper shaping Cebu’s skyline at a height of 607 feet. It’s located along Gen. Maxilom Avenue and is one of the scenic structures that attracts viewers from all possible directions. This complex condominium has been precisely designed with an artistic blend on its multi-purpose units that occupies more than 50 storeys. Horizons 101 comprises two towers; Tower 1 is complete while Tower 2 is under construction. This building isn’t only the tallest in Cebu but also outside of Metro Manila.
The Crown Regency Towers
This is a hotel complex located along Osmena Boulevard. It’s one of the country’s tallest hotel buildings at a height of 490 feet. The Crown Regency was designed by a reputable local architectural firm and plans are underway to extend the height so as to accommodate more rides and attraction facilities at the building’s extreme top. Equipped with modern facilities; this tower is a must-visit recreational spot in Cebu.
SM Seaside Tower
The tallest observation tower in the Philippines is located at the heart of SM Seaside City Cebu. It is also the tallest skyscraper in the South district of Cebu. SM Seaside City Cebu had been ranked the third-largest shopping mall in the Philippines and the 8th in the world. The SM Seaside Mall has a whopping leasable area of more than 460,000 square meters making it a major commerce center in the country. A visit to this building will accommodate all your recreational needs; from the regular cinemas and modern amusement facilities, an ice-skating rink to a center-stage theatre.
Ancient architecture
In the dozens of temples, monuments, cathedrals, and other ancient buildings to visit in Cebu; below are some of the most reputable ancient architectural structures.
Cebu Heritage Monument
This is one of the most important places to visit in Cebu due to the wide collection of art found in the monument. These arts narrate the Country’s pre-colonial pre-colonial periods to the modern-day. It’s located in Mandaue City, a 30-minute drive from Cebu city.
Fort San Pedro
This historical monument located in the Pier area within the city was built in 1738 by Conquistadors to protect them from Muslim invaders. The architectural concept of this building has a lot to say about the slow but sure evolution of modern architecture.
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
The exquisite architecture of this worship hall leaves an arresting appeal to the eyes. It’s located along Mabini Street and has become more of a tourist attraction to many believers from various parts of the world.
ALSO READ: Museums and churches that contribute to Cebu’s rich culture and heritage
Conclusion
Without the beauty of ancient architecture and the serenity of modern skyscrapers; Cebu is just but an ordinary industrial city with populated islands. Dating to as early as the 16th century, this city has a well-kept history that can only be read through its beauty and diverse culture. A stay in without a visit to the above places which holds an important place in the hearts of Cebuanos.
