Ilocos is often regarded as one of the Philippines’ most historically important provinces. It is sometimes referred to as Region I and is located in the far northwestern part of Luzon. Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan are the four provinces that make up this area. Pangasinan is the northernmost province. The original inhabitants of this area were the Negrito people, who are now extinct. The area was subject to the influence of the Spanish in the 16th century. The Spanish colonisers left behind a significant number of governmental and religious structures in the area. The territory was first ruled by the Americans at the beginning of the 20th century, but in 1941 it was occupied by the Japanese.
The Ilocos area is well-known for both its historic significance and the breathtaking natural beauty of its landscape. There are a great number of churches and other buildings that date back to the region’s colonial era. Ilocos is an appealing tourist destination not only due to the presence of these ancient relics, but also due to the region’s abundance of long beaches that are free of pollution.
Main Tourist Attractions of Ilocos, Phillipines
Hundred Island National Park
This park, which can be found in Pangasnian and is next to the Lingayen Gulf, is one of the most well-known attractions in the area. More than a hundred unspoiled, teeny-tiny islands are dispersed throughout an area of saltwater that is 4556 acres in size and is ringed by tranquil seas. There are just roughly three islands out of all of these smaller islands that have been developed as tourist destinations. There are a few islands that are made up of nothing but rocks, while the rest are covered with beautiful greenery. There are a few others with caves.
Vigan’s Colonial Houses
Vigan is the only colonial town in the nation that is still inhabited, and it serves as the capital of Ilocos Sur. The area is littered with the ruins of Spanish homes that date back to the 16th century, in addition to other historical sites such as architectural and religious institutions. It is a city that exemplifies the greatest example of planned Spanish colonies in Asia, while yet maintaining an environment that is distinctly European. In addition to this, it preserves the ancestral homes that were constructed by prosperous Chinese merchants. Clay bricks and tiled flat roofs are used in the construction of these homes so that they may better withstand the damaging effects of earthquakes.
Catholic Churches
In reference to the region’s historical link to Spain, there are still a great number of ancient Catholic churches in existence, particularly in the city of Vigan, which served as the seat of the Bishop of Nueva Segovia. Paoay Church, the Cathedral of Saint Paul, and the Cathedral of Saint William are just a few examples of the magnificent churches that can be seen in this area. The architectural styles of Gothic, Oriental, and Baroque were all used into the construction of these one-of-a-kind churches.
Ayala Museum
The birthplace of Jose Burgos is now a museum that may be visited by the public. In the year 1872, the Spanish put Jose Burgos to death. The Capitol Building serves as the backdrop for the museum, which has an extensive collection of antiquities, as well as historic paintings and pictures.
Paoay Lake
Ilocos is home to a number of beautiful lakes, including the Paoay Lake. It is surrounded by five barangays all the way around. It is a lake that only contains freshwater and has no tributaries. The region is well-known for its fish farming, and in 1969 it was designated as a national park. The region also has a sports complex.
Suba Beach
An magnificent beach in the province of Ilocos, this one may be found near Paoay. The beach is well-known for the vast sand dunes that are located there; their width may reach up to 2,625 feet. In addition to this, it is well-known for the thrilling surfing activities and the most beautiful view of the sunset. A great number of filmmakers visit Suba Beach due to the picturesque splendour of the area, which they like capturing on film.
