Cebu: Heritage Town of Boljoon

Cebu's Premier Heritage Town

I always wanted to go to Boljoon. I have heard so much about the place specially on how the locals there do a concerted effort to preserve the place. Even before Oslob became famous for those gentle whalesharks, Boljoon has always been at the back of my mind whenever I travel Cebu. And why not, it is the home of the oldest remaining original stone church in Cebu.

Boljoon Church

Preserved Old House

Trumpheting Arch Angels

Boljoon Church is a sight to behold because it is situated between the mountains and the sea. In its vicinity are old houses, the quaint Bermejo Park and other preserved structures. Wikipedia could not describe it more accurately by stating that Boljoon Church shows old and intricate carvings and bass relief. It is in a pseudo-baroque rococo style. The interior is decorated beautifully. It has a main nave, a transcript, and twenty-eight pillars which support the walls. The walls are as thick as the pillars which are two meters thick and made of mortar and lime.

Skulled Walls

Back Cemetery

Church Interior

At the back of the church is a cemetery where the remains of the prominent who's who in town are buried. Fronting the cemetery is a century old arch and thick walls with design of skulls and bones. There are only few remains left there and it is presently undergoing renovations.

Ceiling Art

Century-Aged Arch to Cemetery

In 1999, the National Historical Institute declared it a National Historical Landmark. The National Museum declared it as a National Cultural Treasure in 2000.