The Toledo City Labyrinth is one of Cebu’s most picturesque gardens.
Photo from Sugboanong Kabatan-onan – Toledo City Facebook Page
What’s the difference between a labyrinth and a maze?
Mazes are more complicated, with a network of interconnected paths that one must navigate as they try to find the exit. On the other hand, labyrinths are designed like mazes, but they only have one path leading directly to the end.
This unique setup allows labyrinths to be rather relaxing and meditative, despite how intimidating they look.
That being said, you can experience an exciting labyrinth that also happens to be one of the most popular tourist spots in Toledo City.
The Toledo City Labyrinth at the Capilla Santa Ana Museum and Community Center has an impressive design that has made it a renowned photography spot on the island.
Spanning 25 meters in diameter, its intricate interconnected path leads to the middle of the garden. While obviously aesthetically pleasing, the main intention behind it has to do with faith and Catholicism.
It was started by a native who looked to improve the living conditions of this Southern Cebu town.
HISTORY OF THE TOLEDO CITY LABYRINTH
The labyrinth is owned by Lillian Yared, who was married to since deceased Canadian national, Michael Overs. In 2005, Lillian and Michael founded the Tesari Foundation, a charity aimed at helping the less fortunate in Toledo City.
The organization opened several projects like hospitals, clinics, schools, and even a riverside bridge. In 2012, they unveiled their private chapel, the Capilla Santa Ana.
This Cebu church is designed similarly to renaissance-era European churches, with its emphasis on symmetry and harmony. It consists of a baptism chamber, a prayer room, a classroom, and a museum.
This museum in Cebu highlights religion and the arts, with its selection of religious artifacts and centuries-old paintings. Inside, guests can find a replica of the Pieta by Michelangelo and an 1859 Steinway piano.
Guests can pay a fee for a tour around the museum, but take note that you are not allowed to bring a camera inside.
Then again, the place is mostly known for the labyrinth, which does not require an entrance fee.
Its intricate layout is reminiscent of the hedge mazes in Italy and France. In the middle of the labyrinth is a statue of Mother Mary carrying the Child Jesus, with angel statues surrounding it.
The labyrinth is intended for praying the rosary, as you walk from the entrance to the center, which is enough time for you to go over a single mystery.
This makes it rather sacred, so guests should behave accordingly as not to disturb those who have come to pray.
It’s no surprise that the labyrinth has become a popular Toledo City tourist spot because of its fascinating design, especially when you see it from a bird’s eye-view.
Speaking of which, guests can go up a ladder and take photos of the garden from an elevated angle.
Others can enjoy the peace and quiet while going on leisurely walks.
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Capilla Santa Ana is not only a place to marvel at when it comes to Cebuano artistry, as it’s primarily a sacred shrine where many come to offer prayers and ask for blessings.
The garden maze and chapel perfectly blends religion and art while showcasing one of the most impressive structures on the island.
HOW TO GET THERE
Exact Location:
Sitio Santa Ana, Ibo, Toledo City, Cebu
Operating Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 – 11:00 AM, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 – 10:00 AM, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
To commute to Toledo City, you can ride a bus at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. The bus enroute to Toledo passes through Naga, taking about two hours for you to get there.
To go back to the city, you can ride a Cebu City bound bus at Barangay Lutopan.
