Vigan Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, also known as Vigan Cathedral, is a Catholic cathedral in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site declaration for the Historic Town of Vigan in 1999. Here are some facts about the cathedral that you might find interesting:

• The cathedral was originally built in 1641, but it was damaged by earthquakes in 1619 and 1627. It was rebuilt from 1790 to 1800 in a Renaissance Earthquake Baroque style that combines European and Asian elements.

• The cathedral has a distinctive facade that features a single belfry, three arched entrances, and a triangular pediment with a bas-relief of Saint Paul's conversion. The interior has a cruciform layout with a central nave and four lateral chapels. The main altar has an image of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, the patroness of the archdiocese.

• The cathedral is located in Plaza Salcedo, the heart of Vigan's historic district. It is surrounded by other notable buildings, such as the Archbishop's Palace, the City Hall, and the Simbaan a Bassit (a small cemetery chapel). The plaza also hosts various cultural events and festivals, such as the Longganisa Festival and the Raniag Festival.

• The cathedral is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm for visitors and worshippers. It offers regular masses in English, Filipino, and Ilocano languages. It also serves as a venue for weddings, baptisms, confirmations, and other sacraments.