The Interesting History of Vigan City

 

 Stepping Back in Time: Exploring the History of Vigan City

If there’s one place in the Philippines that feels like stepping straight into a history book, it’s Vigan City. Walking through its cobblestone streets lined with ancestral houses, you can almost hear the echoes of horse-drawn kalesas and imagine the lives of the people who once filled this Spanish colonial town with laughter, trade, and culture.

A Glimpse into the Past

Vigan’s story began long before the Spanish set foot on its shores. It was once a thriving coastal trading post known as “Biga-a”, named after a plant that grew abundantly in the area. Chinese, Malay, and other Asian merchants frequently visited to trade gold, beeswax, and other goods — proof that Vigan was already a center of commerce even before colonization.

When Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo arrived in 1572, he was captivated by this vibrant community and decided to establish a town. It became Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan, named in honor of King Ferdinand of Spain. From then on, Vigan flourished as a colonial settlement, blending Filipino, Chinese, and Spanish influences — a mix that shaped its unique architecture and culture.

The Charm of Calle Crisologo

Fast forward to the present, and Vigan’s crown jewel, Calle Crisologo, continues to preserve that old-world charm. The street is lined with centuries-old stone houses, wooden windows, and iron balconies — once home to wealthy Filipino-Chinese traders. Today, these structures have been transformed into quaint souvenir shops, cafés, and museums, allowing travelers to experience the city’s past while sipping a cup of empanada-paired coffee.

Culture and Legacy

Vigan’s cultural heritage doesn’t end with its architecture. Every January, the city comes alive with the Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts, a celebration of its history, artistry, and traditions. The weaving of abel Iloko, a centuries-old craft, and the strong preservation of Ilocano cuisine — from longganisa to bagnet — keep its culture thriving in modern times.

Because of its well-preserved Spanish colonial and Asian-inspired architecture, UNESCO declared Vigan a World Heritage Site in 1999. In 2015, it was also recognized as one of the New7Wonders Cities of the World, standing proudly among global cities known for their cultural richness.