Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
6000 Mabini Street, Cebu City, Cebu
With thick white walls built to withstand tropical typhoons, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral looks like a typical Philippine church. Decorated with griffins and floral motifs, the facade is the only original part of the chapel left, as the interior was destroyed during World War II. The restored cathedral has a gold altar and life-size statues of saints.
As an integral part of Cebu’s architectural heritage, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral features on most city sightseeing tours. First-time visitors may choose to view the church as part of an introductory tour, most of which include top Cebu attractions such as Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and Colon Street. To enjoy convenient round-trip transport and the insider knowledge of a guide, most travelers opt to visit the cathedral as part of a tour.
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is a must-visit for those interested in Cebu’s cultural heritage.
The cathedral is free to enter.
Respectful attire is required to visit this active place of worship.
A particularly special time to be at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is on Holy Tuesday, when the annual procession of religious floats, devotees, and colorful depictions of saints are paraded outside the church. If you find yourself at the church around noon, take a wander to the nearby park to relax in the shade.
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is located on Mabini Street, in the Parian district. To get there via public transportation, take a local jeepney to Santo Niño Barangay Hall. To avoid navigating chaotic public transport, visit the cathedral as part of a guided tour.
The cathedral dates back to the 16th century, when it was a barn covered in coconut palms. Throughout the years, the building was updated, renovated, and damaged by both natural disasters and bombing during WWII. Today, after extensive renovation, the cathedral is a typical example of Spanish colonial architecture.
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