Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral: One of the Oldest Churches in Cebu City, Philippines

The Philippines has a rich and diverse history that's evidently marked by colonial influences and legacies. With that, churches in the Philippines come in different styles and designs. On top of that, Cebu, Philippines, is home to historical churches. Thus, if traveling here in the Philippines, specifically to Cebu City, is on your itinerary, you might consider visiting the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the ancient churches in Cebu City. Here, I'll give you a sneak peek of it and a brief historical background.

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In the bustling city of Cebu, there's this church that you can see with architectural splendor, the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. You can truly feel a sense of wonder and reverence just by looking at it. As you may know, this beautiful church was built in dedication to Mary, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, and to Saint Vitalis of Milan.

_{In 2016, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines designated the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral as a heritage church and installed a heritage marker for it.}

The first cathedral was built of wood and nipa, was erected and became the center of the Diocese of Cebu in 1595. In 1934, Cebu was elevated to an archdiocese and the cathedral became a Metropolitan Cathedral. Only the facade, belfry, and surrounding walls of the church remained standing after being damaged during World War II. It was reconstructed during the time of Archbishop Julio Cardinal Rosales in 1950. Despite being destroyed by the war, the Cathedral has been reconstructed, undergone several renovations, and has been well preserved, which is why it's still functionally active and standing to this day.

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As is evident, the architectural design of the church is like Baroque-Rococo style. Its magnificent beauty, spiritual, and historical significance make it an iconic landmark in Cebu City, Philippines over the centuries. On top of that, as stated, here I provide you some sneak peeks of Cebu Cathedral.

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Where is Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral located?

Now, if you're wondering about the location of the church, it's situated at Mabini St, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines, near the Basilica Minore Del Sto. Niño de Cebu or Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu, which is also one of the oldest and most historical churches in Cebu City. You might want to consider learning more about that heritage site; just kindly click this link.

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