Built by the Spaniards back in the Spanish era and commanded by the famous Migual Lopez de Legazpo, the oldest fort in the Philippines is now well-known as a tourist spot. It is most commonly known as Fort San Pedro.
It served as the military defense structure in Cebu, Philippines. At the time of building the fort, Legazpi was the first governor of the Captaincy General of the Philippines or CPG.
Cebu Fort San Pedro Tourist Attraction
Fort San Pedro offers every visitor a historical piece of the rich past of the city and would make for a great excursion showcasing the narrative during the 17th century.
History of Fort San Pedro
This fort is strategically situated in Plaza Independencia, specifically in the pier area of the city. Back in its earlier years, the original fort was built using wood. After Legazpi came in the place, it was reconstructed using stones and the reason behind this is to repel the Muslim raiders.
The Fort San Pedro was built in 1738 and continued to become the oldest triangular bastion fort of the Philippines. Little did others know, this place became the nucleus of the Spanish settlement or the main area where Spaniards congregate.
Fort San Pedro and Its Shape
As mentioned above, the fort mimics the triangular shape with its two sides facing the sea. Meanwhile, the third side is facing the land. These three bastions were named as La Concepcion which is facing southwest, San Miguel which is facing Northeast, and Ignacio de Loyola which is facing Southeast. All in all, the total area covered by the Fort San Pedro is 21, 800 square feet.
Inside Fort San Pedro
As one comes near to the place, contemporary tune is heard. This is played by various talented blind musicians who actively welcomes the guests of Fort San Pedro. With its joyous tune, tourists are more likely to jive in to the music and dance to its rhythm.
Although it was claimed as the oldest, it is also the smallest fort in the Philippines. Its walls were only 20 feet tall and 8 feet thick which is relatively small in measurements compared to other forts in the country. Two rectangular columns are also found in the place. This is specifically where you can site the raised Philippine flag.
Tunnel-shaped windows are also found on top of the place. This is where Sto. Niño, the patron saint of Cebu City, is found. Below it is a niche which has a seal which symbolizes the Spanish king.
Fort San Pedro at the Present Time
Fort San Pedro is now a park in Cebu City. It serves as the oasis of the busy streets of the city. It is now a museum by which anyone can enjoy and learn the history of Cebu. It also tells a story about the Spanish occupation.
Video: Fort San Pedro Cebu Tour
Below you can check out a video clip of a tour of Fort San Pedro. This video was uploaded by World Cybervision:
How to Get There
If you are in Mactan International Airport, you can opt to ride a taxi or a jeepney. From Mactan Marina Mall, you can ride a jeep that is going to MEPZA Lapu Lapu City Vice Versa. Just tell the driver that you want to visit Fort San Pedro.
The entrance fee for students would cost PHP 20 while adults are required to pay PHP 30. Senior citizens get to have a discount, it would only cost them PHP 24. The place is open daily from 8 AM up to 8 PM.
Address: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
Opening Hours: 8am to 8pm
Entrance Fees:
Adults – 30 Pesos
Students – 20 Pesos
