Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Exploring Fort San Pedro


A must visit site in Cebu

Fort San Pedro or Fuerte de San Pedro is a famous landmark in Cebu. It played a significant role in the history of Cebu.


Fort San Pedro, one of the historical sites in Cebu
old photographs of Fort San Pedro

This smallest and oldest triangular fort in the Philippines was constructed in 1738 under the command of Spanish conquistador, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.The eight-foot thick walls are made from coral stones.  


walls made from coral stones
the other side of the wall

 This military defense structure was built to fend off Muslim raiders. It also served as stronghold for  Filipino revolutionaries near the end of the 19th century. During the American period, it became part of the American Warwick barracks and was converted into school from 1937 to 1941. Furthermore, it was utilized as a hospital during World War II.


one of the bastions of the fort
Fort San Pedro served as military defense structure during the Spanish era

Inside the fort is a park showcasing different plants. Wishing well can also be found in the compound. 

Fort San Pedro Historical Park
bonsai plants
the patio

Several rooms in the fort now served as museums showcasing well preserved Spanish documents, paintings, and sculptures, and other artifacts featuring Spanish era.


Portraits of Ferdinand Magellan and Lapu Lapu
hand-crafted boats and galleons are also on display

Tour guides (students) assist the visitors in exploring the fort. They also  provide  historical facts about Cebu. (You can also ask them to take your pictures : )

Fort San Pedro is located in the Pier Area. Below is the screenshot of Googlemap showing its location (marked by star). The best way to get there is through taxi.




Entrance fee:
Regular: P30
Senior Citizen: P24
Student: P20
Operating hours: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

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