5 Most Interesting Places to Visit in Vigan

Besides the Heritage Village, there's still a lot to see in the capital of Ilocos Sur. So after choosing a hotel in Vigan City, make sure to keep these 5 destinations in mind so that you won't skip them:

Syquia Mansion. Once the residence of the late President Elpidio Quirino, this ancestral house belonged to the family of his wife, Doña Alicia Syquia. Featuring memorabilia from the Quirino presidency, this spacious mansion has been well-maintained throughout the years. Several notable art pieces are also on display, such as a replica of Juan Luna's Spoliarium, made by the painter's assistant; and 3 oil portraits of the Quirino family painted by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo. To go to this museum, simply walk through Crisologo Street towards the direction of Gordion Hotel.#

Crisologo Museum. This was once the home of the late Floro S. Crisologo, one of Ilocos Sur's first congressmen, and patriarch of the political clan of the same name that runs this repository. More than a century old, it was converted into a museum in the congressman's memory after his assassination at the Vigan Cathedral in 1970. Like the Syquia Mansion, it has the memorabilia of the Crisologo family on display, along with a calesa that is still used as wedding carriages. Several reminders of the province's bloody past is also exhibited, such as the blood-stained pants that the late congressman wore when he was assassinated, and a bullet-ridden old car that his pregnant widow rode while serving as Governor of the province. Located along Liberation Boulevard, admission is free, though a small donation for the museum's upkeep is appreciated.

Fr. Jose Burgos House. Maintained by the National Museum, it was once the ancestral home of Fr. Jose Burgos' family, which was seized by the Spanish government after the priest's execution. The house was also used as the Vigan Post Office during the American occupation and as a branch of the Philippine National Bank after World War II. Today, it has numerous memorabilia of the martyred priest on display, plus a 14-painting series on the Basi Revolt in the 19th century, made by Esteban Villanueva. The museum is located on the street of the same name, and charges a small admission fee.

Hidden Garden. This development is located on the outskirts of the Vigan City proper. The brainchild of landscape architect Francis Flores, this garden started out as part of his therapy after suffering from 3 heart attacks. With a health spa still in the works, this attraction may be new compared to the rest of the city's tourist spots, having just opened a few years ago. Yet with its beautiful collection of flora plus a coffee shop situated inside, it's a great place to relax and take a break from exploring the city.

Baluarte. Located on top of a hill, the Baluarte is like the Hidden Garden – just on the peripheries of the city, yet only 10 minutes from the center. Owned by Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, the 70-hectare property boasts a mini-zoo, butterfly farm, a track for riding miniature horses, and more. It is also a fine way to cap your Vigan visit, as it offers a panoramic view of the city and the South China Sea.

So before you check out of your hotel in Vigan City, go over this list again to make sure you haven't missed out on any of these attractions.