Travel Blog: When in Vigan

  As stress finally reduced in the last day of periodical exams, me and my friend decided to plan the destination of our well-deserved short vacation. We craved a place far from the hustle and bustle of tall buildings and big, smokey vehicles. An infamous place, that way, everyone who sees our posts will immediately know where we were. We searched at endless depths of the web, and after some time, we finally found our dream place—Vigan City. The city is known for giving tourists a glimpse back in time, with horse-drawn carriages, ancestral houses dating back to the Spanish Colonial Era, and cobblestone-filled streets. Not only is it infamous, Vigan is recognized as a Historic UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the New 7 Wonder Cities of the World. Our excitement skyrocketed as we discovered that our chosen destination, Vigan City, coincided with a festival during our planned vacation. The prospect of experiencing the vibrant festivities added an extra layer of anticipation to our trip. Little did we know that our visit would coincide with a spectacular marching band showdown, where we would witness synchronized performances, unique uniforms, and the lively spirit of the local culture on full display, making our well-deserved vacation even more memorable.

  Our first stop was Plaza Burgos, where the marching band showdown was on full display. All groups were synchronized in their dancing, had unique uniforms, flags, batons, drums, and lyres. Many locals and tourists had also gathered to watch the show. With the lively music echoing in the background, we decided to head to nearby food stalls. The Vigan Empanada, lived up to its reputation – a perfect blend of savory and satisfying. The Okoy, left our taste buds craving for more. As we enjoyed our delicious treats, sharing travel experiences and creating lasting connections in the heart of Plaza Burgos.

  Our next stop was the well-known Calle Crisologo. Walking through Calle Crisologo is like stepping into a living museum, where every cobblestone beneath your feet tells a story of centuries past. 

  The well-preserved Spanish colonial houses, with their antique windows and intricately designed balconies, transport you to a bygone era. The soft clip-clop of horse-drawn Kalesas adds a nostalgic rhythm to the air as you navigate the narrow streets lined with artisan shops and charming cafes. 

  Curious as we were about the name of this street, we decided to head at its very own museum. Crisologo Museum was told to be the residence of the honorable Floro Crisologo, the former governor of Ilocos Sur who was assasinated inside Vigan Cathedral by acclaimed outsiders. The century-old mansion became a door to let both tourists and locals witness the success and struggles of Floro Crisologo. 

  To be honest, it was kind of creepy for me. And although it gave us some interesting glimpses of the politics in the province, I was just not fully comfortable with things like — these were the pants he wore when he was killed and there were pictures of where he was laying bloodied on the floor, this car was where she was ambushed, etc. But it was pretty enlightening and gave us a whole new view about Vigan’s history.

  Embarking on a Kalesa ride through the charming streets of Vigan City was a great experience. The rhythmic clatter of hooves echoed as we hit the cobblestone roads, offering a leisurely pace to appreciate the colonial architecture and vibrant surroundings.

  Our destination, Pagburnayan, a traditional pottery workshop, welcomed us with the warm greetings of the souvenir sellers and the earthy scent of clay. Guided by a skilled potter, we immersed ourselves in the hands-on experience of crafting burnay jars, witnessing the meticulous process of molding and shaping the distinctive pottery that Vigan is renowned for. We also took our time admiring the trinkets the jar factory offered.

   We hopped on the horse-drawn carriage once more to a visit to the Provincial Jail Museum which added a unique and intriguing dimension to our experience. As we entered the museum, we were greeted by fellow tourists, a polite attendant, and humorous guards. 

  The imposing facade of the historic jail building hinted at the stories within its walls. The exhibits unfolded a tapestry of Vigan's history, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and narratives that provided insights into the evolution of the city's justice system. 

  Walking through the well-preserved cells and examining the artifacts offered a somber yet enlightening perspective on the criminal justice system of a bygone era. The artifacts provided tangible connections to the lives and stories of those who once inhabited these confined spaces, leaving me with a deeper understanding of the complexities that characterized the criminal justice system of that era.

  As me and my friends parted ways due to the differences of our next destinations, I decided to go to the heart of where festivities were being held. While strolling through the trade fair, the vibrant array of products caught my eye, ranging from intricately woven textiles to handmade crafts and local delicacies. Their stalls are also decorated in accordance to what they are selling which are eye-pleasing to all. 

  I was fortunate enough to bump into a known figure, Chavit Singson, a Filipino businessman and politician, the former governor of Ilocos Sur. This chance encounter with a prominent local figure made my visit to the heart of the festivities in Vigan even more memorable.

  As I went back, I decided my last stop to be at the crazed One Ilocos Sur Cafe inside the Ilocos Sur Provincial Tourism Development and Promotion Office AKA Farmer’s Building. Entering the bustling cafe, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly brewed local coffee and the lively chatter of fellow visitors. The cafe's eclectic decor, featuring traditional Ilocano elements and modern touches, provided a cozy setting to unwind. 

  As I bid farewell to the captivating city of Vigan, I couldn't help but reflect on the many  experiences that defined my journey. From the enchanting cobblestone streets of Calle Crisologo to the immersive pottery-making at Pagburnayan, Vigan offered a rich tapestry of history, culture, and gastronomy. Exploring the Provincial Jail Museum provided a poignant glimpse into the city's past, while chance encounters with local figures like Chavit Singson added unexpected layers to my adventure. The heartwarming festivities, diverse trade fair offerings, and the delightful flavors of One Ilocos Sur Cafe made my time in Vigan an unforgettable exploration of heritage and hospitality. With memories in tow, I left Vigan with a deep appreciation for its timeless charm and a longing to return someday.

References:

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