Fascinating Fort San Pedro: Cebu’s Oldest Military Structure

The Fort San Pedro is a former military structure that hearkens back to years of history in the Queen City of the South.

The many beaches and islands of Cebu make it an ideal destination for a much needed vacation getaway, but it is just as unique and interesting with the countless historical attractions you can visit in and out of the city.

At the heart of Cebu are some centuries-old tourist spots that have stood tall for many years. Before the massive infrastructure towering in the streets today, there was one in particular that played a pivotal role in Philippine history.

Fort San Pedro is the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines, and it is one of the most famous Cebu heritage sites. It is a staple for field trips, dates, picnics, and even wedding receptions. Located in the middle of the metro, you can easily access the fort whilst visiting other famous attractions within the area.

THE HISTORY OF THE FORT SAN PEDRO

The fort’s stone walls show its importance in Philippine history during the Spanish colonial period.

Built by Spanish conqueror Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, it served as an army base in the early 17th century. The Filipinos then took over the fort and turned it into their own stronghold during the Philippine revolution.

Fort San Pedro is triangular, with one side facing the city and two facing the ocean. Canons were equipped with seaside walls to protect themselves from any incoming attacks, while the front was covered with a massive stone wall.

You can start your morning with a stroll in one of the most famous tourist spots in Cebu City.

The fort still stands today, and it is one of the most popular tourist spots in Cebu City.

Both the large stone walls and massive canons can be found inside Fort San Pedro, and a stroll along the walls gives you a great view of the area below.

IMAGES OF WAR

Remnants from the past can be seen inside Fort San Pedro.

Bastions are also placed at the corners of the fort. These are fortified positions used to protect a specific unit or item. Images of the Virgin Mary and other saints were placed there to keep them safe. Right now, they are dark and empty.

The long walkway is a great place for a morning or afternoon stroll. The flowers add color to an otherwise barren structure. It also makes for a very photogenic and instagrammable portion of the fort.

Among the leisurely things to do in Fort San Pedro is taking instagrammable photos along the fort's walls.

A SERIES OF EXHIBITS

A stroll is merely a sample of the things to do in Fort San Pedro, as it houses several artwork depicting many historical figures in Cebu’s history. If you ever wondered what Cebuanos and Spaniards in the past looked like, this is a great place to find out.

The Gallery houses some interesting artwork depicting significant figures in Philippine history.

If you are a photography aficionado, head on down to the Viviende del Teniente, where “Pistaym” is located. This is a gallery of curated old photos of Cebu. You can get an idea of what the older areas in Cebu like Colon and Carbon looked like before their major changes.

There is also a gallery of photos of old Cebu, which includes a picture of Plaza Independencia, where the fort is located.

Finally, there is a huge open space inside the fort’s walls that you can just sit down and relax in. Though probably less interesting compared to the walkways and galleries, it is nonetheless an essential part of the fort due to it being a famous spot for gatherings. Wedding receptions, parties, and social events are also held inside the fort’s walls.

RATES

Entrance Fee: 30
Operating Hours: 8AM to 7PM

HOW TO GET THERE

The fort is located in the downtown area of Cebu, inside the popular nature park, Plaza Independencia. You have several options of public transport, like jeepneys, taxis, and even buses that pass by the area.

There are many other famous historical tourist spots in the Philippines that are just a walking distance from the fort, such as the Basilica del Sto. Niño, and it is only a few minutes away from both SM Malls, SM Seaside and SM City Cebu.

As you enter the fort through the Plaza Independencia, you will see several pictures of the founding of Cebu.

Though it is merely a small part of the long and fascinating history of Cebu, Fort San Pedro already has a legitimate status due to its endurance and significant past. As long as the sturdy stone walls continue to stand tall, this former military base will remain an important part of Cebu.

Other posts

Boat in the waters of Cebu

Cebu Ranked among the Best Diving Spots in the Philippines

The Philippines was recognized as the best dive destination in Asia during the biggest diving expo in Malaysia. The Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPBP), an agency under the Department of Tourism (DOT), announced this on March 1, 2023, also highlighting notable diving spots in the country like the island of Cebu. TPBP welcomed travelers and

Read More
firemen putting out house fires in Cebu City

Fire Safety Tips at Home: Before, During, and After

In observance of Fire Prevention Month, here are some important fire safety tips to keep in mind. March serves as a reminder that Fire Prevention Month is underway in the Philippines, as we hear the sirens of fire trucks roving the streets of Cebu City.  The prolonged echoing sound of the sirens keeps us alert

Read More
Signage of the Belmont Hotel at the Mactan Newtown

The Belmont Hotel Takes Inspiration from Cebuano Culture

The Belmont Hotel is one of the newest establishments at the Mactan Newtown. The hospitality industry in Cebu is lucrative because of the many high-end hotels around the island. That being said, you can expect world-class accommodation when visiting areas like Cebu and Lapu-Lapu City. The Megaworld Corporation is famous for promoting Cebu tourism through

Read More
Cebuanos believe that the last step in a flight of stairs should not be divisible by 3.

Common Superstitious Beliefs in Cebu

Cebuanos believe that the last step in a flight of stairs should not be divisible by 3. Have you ever been told not to leave the table if someone is still eating? Or witnessed someone knocking on wood and making a sign of the cross to ward off bad luck? Well, these are just some

Read More
Collage of Singapore and Cebu

Singaporean Ambassador Supports Singapore-like Cebu

Plans are in place to create a Singapore-like experience in Cebu. Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama’s vision of developing the city as a world-class destination like Singapore has received support from the Philippines’ Ambassador to Singapore. Singaporean diplomat Gerard Ho Wei Hong expressed his support for the improvement of the Queen City of the South’s

Read More
Befriend the locals by learning some simple phrases in the Cebuano language.

Learning Cebuano Language: How to Speak like a Local

Befriend the locals by learning some simple phrases in the Cebuano language. Most seasoned travelers will agree that learning the local language of their chosen destination requires effort. However, in most countries, you can easily get by with English. While the same can be said about Cebu, you’ll find that learning the Cebuano language will

Read More

Best of Cebu Videos

Cebu Insights Logo

Seeking to learn more about Cebuano culture, or wanting to know what to do once you arrive, Cebu Insights is the travel guide for you in Cebu!

Contact Us

See Recent Posts

Scroll to Top
×
Weather Forecast
Exchange Currency
Cebu City
75°
Fair
5:48 am5:55 pm PST
Feels like: 75°F
Wind: 6mph NNW
Humidity: 84%
Pressure: 29.86"Hg
UV index: 0

Exchange Rate USD: Tue, 21 Mar.