Ancient Vigan City

Famous for its display of old stone houses built ages ago and the cobblestone streets where diverse carriages pace the road, visiting this ancient town will bring you back to the Filipino-Spanish colonial epoch.

Named after the famous Ilocano poet, writer, playwright, and politician Marcelino “Mena” Crisologo, this traditional street is where you’ll find large old homes of Ilocano descendants still standing strong up to this date. 

These Spanish-style residences perfectly represent the modest yet elegant living of the Filipino-Spanish families back in the day.

Every structure seen in the street is fancily adorned with Spanish details, from the red bricks, thick stone walls, wooden double doors, and impressive staircases to the luxurious terraces and windows. These houses have faced tragedies throughout the centuries, and as of today, some were preserved or restored as hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

A way to experience a tour along Calle Crisologo is through wandering or driving the traditional “calesas - horse-drawn carriages. These calesas were used to move around in the 18th century. 

Now, tourists can rent them and relish traditional sightseeing around the area.

Calle Crisologo is also rich in gastronomic places, souvenir shops, and a vintage museum.

The best time to experience Calle Crisologo is early morning when restaurants and souvenir shops start to open and at nighttime when the street is lit with tungsten lamps that give off an 18th century vibe.