Timeless Fusion of Spanish Colonial Charm and Modern Vibrancy in Asia.

Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects integration of cultural aspects from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe. All which has resulted in a spirit and townscape unlike anywhere else in Easy and South-East Asia. Vigan is located at the river delta of the Abra River along the northwestern coastline of the main Island of Luzon, approximately 400 kilometers from Manila, and was an important trading post prior to the colonial era.

The local architecture consists of two-storey structures built of brick and wood, with pitched roofs that harkens back to traditional Chinese style buildings. Typically, the exterior walls of the top storey are enclosed by window panels made from capiz shells framed in wood, which can be slid open for ventilation. The townscape of Vigan has also maintained much of its Hispanic colonial character by keeping it’s grid street pattern and historic urban layout.

Today, Vigan is a modern city that boasts plenty of activities for short and long term visitors. Travellers and residents have plenty of restaurants, hotels and shops to explore. Touristic attractions like Calle Crisologo, Syquia Mansion Museum and Santa Maria church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), among many many others, make this a paradise for lovers of historic architecture.