Tips for Tourists Series: Old Churches in Southern Cebu


St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Carcar, Wikimedia Commons

If you're heading south of Cebu, here are some of the old churches definitely worth visiting.

Remember though that these are places of worship. So turn off your camera's flash, speak in hushed voices and pay heed to those who are praying inside the churches.

St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Carcar

St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Carcar is said to be the second oldest church in Cebu. It was built by Augustinians. The construction began in 1860 until 1875. It is made of pure stones. It adopts a Greco-Roman design and has life-size sculptures of the 12 apostles. The Feast of their Patron is November 25.

San Isidro Labrador Church of San Fernando

Source: Wikimedia Commons

San Isidro Labrador Church of San Fernando was built in honor of San Isidro Labrador, who is also the patron saint of Talamban. The construction of the church was initiated in 1870 and completed in 1886. It is made of coral stones. It became an independent church in 1858.

Sta. Teresa de Avila in Talisay City

Source: Wikimedia Commons

The church was initially constructed in 1836 and completed in 1848. But in 1711, the roof was destroyed by a typhoon. Another construction started in 1880 and took only one year to complete. It has Greco-Roman design similar to other churches in Philippines. In early 1990’s the cross with cherubs was replaced by the image of Sta. Teresa de Avila, their patron saint.

Nuestra Señora del Pilar Zaragoza in Sibonga

Source: Wikipedia

The construction started in 1846 but completed only in 1881. It has a Gothic design and is made of stone and bricks. It became an independent church in 1830.

St. Michael Archangel in Argao

Source: Wikimedia Commons

St. Michael Archangel in Argao was founded in October 16, 1733 and constructed from 1803 until its completion in 1836. Its facade was constructed in 1783 and is still well-preserved.

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