Cebu History

Cebu History

Cebu and Mactan is rich in historical significance. From about 800 AD Cebu harbor was already an important trading partner port for Chinese, Islamic, and Malayan goods. In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan discovered the Philippines and eventually found his way to Mactan. Because of a dispute of uncertain nature incurred anger Spaniards local chieftain Lapu-Lapu who killed Magellan in the Battle of Mactan - arguably the first case of an Asian fighting European invaders. While the Magellan Expedition is credited with the first circumnavigation of the globe, Magellan the man died and remained in Mactan. 

(It is said in some chronicles that Magellan's expedition included a Cebuano-speaking personnel who have previously traveled across Asia, Middle East and the Mediterranean before joining the expedition in Spain. When the expedition reached Cebu, this crew - a Cebuano - became the first person to actually implement a trip around the world.) 

In the early part of the Spanish era, Cebu was the effective capital of the country, which in turn was a province of Mexico. (The capital was later moved to Manila, which was easily defensible against sea attack.) It continued to flourish as a trading port. And to this day, Cebu is the most ethnically diverse area in the country with large Chinese, Spanish, and Malay peoples (not to mention the recent German and American arrivals). 

Cebu is now regarded as the most dynamic metro area in the country, with growth rates generally twice as high as the national average. It is home to an astonishing array of industries, including semiconductors, shipping, education, watchmaker, food processing, high-end furniture, and of course tourism. (A little trivia: Almost all Timex watches are sold worldwide are made in Cebu.) 

Things to do in Cebu:

Boat cruises and excursions to nearby reefs and sandbars (half to full day) 

Shopping for crafts and native foods old Cebu. 

Visit in early Christian churches and the well-preserved colonial city Carcare (full day). 

Trip to Moalboal, a world renowned diving destination (full day). 

Daily tours with modern jet craft of Negros, Bohol and Leyte, larger nearby islands with beautiful sights and charming architecture. 

Modern shopping malls - Cebu has two. 

 Guided tour of Cebu City, including: Fort San Pedro (a beautiful example of an early Spanish fortress), the Magellan Cross (shrine of the first Christian cross in Asia), the Basilica de Santo Niño (built to commemorate the miraculous rediscovery of a Christ child statue in early Spanish days) Top (a mountain top lookout point), the Taoist temple for a glimpse of Cebu's Chinese heritage, Gorordo House (a restored turn-of-the-century Archbishop's villa), CAP Center (with souvenirs of WWII era President Osmeña), and Carbon public market.