Just like in any other towns in the country, and probably in most of the world, here in Vigan, the life of people revolve around their religion. Thus, most of the residential streets, like Calle Crisologo, lead to the town's main church, the Vigan Cathedral. A historic site that provides every visitor a quick background of the story behind Vigan, Vigan Cathedral has been my mouth-less storyteller that time.
Built in 1641, this church has been a part of the intriguing and colorful history of Vigan City since then. And one of the most intriguing story that involves Vigan Cathedral is the assassination of Congressman Floro S. Crisologo, which took place right in front of the church's altar.
My fascination to this church started from the antique replicas of saint that were scattered all over the church. The interior of the church may look modern, but the Romanesque style was kept intact, which can give the town's visitors a unique experience.
Travelling a little north from the famous city of Vigan lays another historic site one should see when visiting Ilocos Sur. A spot that will give its visitors a bird's eye view of the colorful Vigan City and its own town Bantay, St. Augustine Parish Church and its stunning belfry knows as Bantay Belfry was one of our first destinations upon reaching Ilocos Sur.
Housing the image of Our Lady of Charity, the Patroness of Ilocandia, St. Augustine Parish Church posses a maroon-like brick facade with the design elements of Neo-Grothic. The interior, on the other hand, has a mix of Pseudo-Romansque elements forming this series of arches leading everyone to the altar. The interior looks quite simple, which I personally think was done o purpose to give emphasis on the church structure.
Story behind this church comes with the image of Our Lady of Charity found floating in the Bantay River before it was found and brought to land by the local fisherman. Some other towns claim that the image was theirs but it was only the people from Bantay who was able to carry it leaving the other towns no choice but to let Bantay have it.
