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Historical & Cultural Heritage As the site of the oldest Spanish settlement in the country, modern Cebu retains traces of its colonial heritage. Centuries-old churches and Antillan houses, hig-rises and modern buildings jostle for space along the tree-lined streets.
Lapu-Lapu's Monument in Mactan Island, was erected in honor of the first Filipino Chieftain who fought for his people's freedom. Adjacent to Lapu-Lapu's monument is Magellan's marker, a tribute to the Portuguese explorer slain by Lapu-Lapu on that same spot. Casa Gorordo, once the residence of the first Catholic bishop of Cebu, has been restored as a reminder of a more gracious bygone era. Its opulent halls house cultural and historical relics of the 18th century, a collection of old prints, and contemporary works of art. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm. A modest entrance fee is collected. The Osmeña residence holds some of General Douglas MacArthur's memorabilia and the personal mementos of Sergio Osmeña, the first President of the Philippine Republic after World War II. The University of San Carlos Musuem within the city proper houses a wide collection of interesting finds from all over the country. Its exhibits of religious relics, archaeological and ethnic artifacts, botanical and zoological specimens and other finds are a must for history buffs and curio enthusiasts. Magellan's Cross, the replica of which contains the remnants of the original one planted by Ferdinand Magellan on Cebu's shores, stands within a wayside shrine commemorating the conversion of the first Filipinos to Christianity. Ceiling murals depict the first Catholic mass celebrated on Philippine shores. The Cebu Capitol, seat of provincial government, is a magnificent edifice of pre-war vintage. From the Avenue of Flags, its dome can be seen rising white against the backdrop of mountains in the distance.
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Fort
San Pedro, the smallest and oldest bastion in the country,
was built in 1738 to repel Muslim raiders. At times, it served as
a stronghold for Filipino revolutionaries, as a US army barracks,
and as a prison camp during the Japanese occupation. Today, it is
a historical park.
Travel Quotes: I still make sure to go, at least once every year, to a country where things cannot be taken for granted, and where there is either too much law and order or too little. Christopher Hitchens
Central Philippine CuisineBicol is noted for its gastronomic appetite for the fiery or chili-hot dishes. Perhaps the most well-known Bicolano dish is the very spicy Bicol express. The region is also the well-known home of natong also known as laing or pinangat (a pork or fish stew in taro leaves). More details at Central Philippine Cuisine
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