A Great Place to Be!
Bacolod City is situated on the island of Negros. The city is 107 kilometers west of Cebu and 730 kilometers south of Manila. Bacolod is accessed by land, sea and air and retains its own regional airport. The city is filled with stunning architecture and an array of historic structures, museums and events.
The church tour of Bacolod City is a must see as the city is filled with stunning houses of worship, murals and gardens. The San Sebastian Cathedral is one of pure Spanish beauty. Made of coral and cement blocks the exterior is beautifully executed. Inside the interior is adorned with stunning hardwood floors that were brought from Palawan in the 16th century. The Palacio Episcopal Church is another structure that has seen the history of the Philippines develops through its masses.
Be sure to tour the church known as Dioesan Shrine of St. Thaddeus. This church has a stunning painted interior that will have you ‘looking up’ for hours on end. The Sta. Clara Chapel is another church that will simple take your breath away. The church is adorned with shell decorations throughout including the alter pieces and much more. The astonishing part is the murals that adorn its interior; one mural alone is a mother of pearl and mosaic tile scene with 95,000 pieces of shells decorating it. Other murals can be found within the church, one with over 35,000 pieces of shells.
The Capital Park and man-made lagoon are a local treasure. Visit the ground early in the morning for a rejuvenating jog around the park. Afterwards head off to the Negros Museum which houses a massive array of history, art and culture of Bacolod City and the surrounding region. The main entrance holds items like a mega sized replica steam locomotive of those that supplied the area during the hay day of sugar cane exports. Find your way to the 40 foot replica boat which was known to sail the high seas. Other parts of the museum include a folk art and antique toy wing with items from around the world. Another important museum to the area is the Dizon Ramon Museum which houses a stunning collection of religious icons, glassware and ceramics from the Philippines and many other regions of Asia.
Other ‘must see’ destinations in Bacolod City are plentiful including the Lazares Mansion where the entire house is adorned in Chinese-inspired furnishings. The Fountain of Justice is an inspiring monument located in front of city hall where many locals hang out at night. Bacolod Public Plaza is one place you will not want to miss. This superb little park has gazebos, fountains and seating areas that are just perfect to relax the day away in. For those into bird watching and nature, head out to Mt. Kanla-on Nature Park. The park is home to many rare birds including the Negros Fruit Dove and the rarely seen Bleeding-Heart Pigeon.
From bird watching to beaches Bacolod City has it all. Come to the Philippines on vacation but come to Bacolod City for the memories that last a lifetime.