modest viajero: BOLJOON - POSTCARD TOWN

Dec. 11' 11 - At last! The Sun finally showed up after 4 days of rain and gloomy weather in Siquijor and Dumaguete..what a good start!

Sunrise at Sibulan Port in Dumaguete around 5:30 am

We're off to Cebu from Sibulan Port in Dumaguete to Liloan, Santander, Cebu via ferry about 30 minutes ride. Fare cost Php 62.00

SANTANDER FERRY AT LILOAN PORT WITH DUMAGUETE IN THE BACKGROUND

The water in Liloan port was clean and you can even see the bottom. Upon arrival there was already a Ceres Bus waiting for passengers, the fare to Boljoon cost Php70.00 and travel time is less than an hour. You will enjoy the ride because it is one of the most scenic roads here in the country.

Boljoon is one of oldest towns in southern Cebu. Boljoon is touted as the Cebu Heritage Frontier. This quaint town bordered by cliffs and luxuriant hills, with natural forests and tall mountain ranges, makes it "THE ONLY POSTCARD TOWN IN THE ENTIRE PROVINCE OF CEBU".

The most popular landmark in Boljoon, Ili Rock is a natural rock formation at the edge of the Poblacion, built-up area. Ilihan is believed to be a natural fortress during pre-historic times.

We alighted in front of Patrocinio de Maria Church, such a great view welcomed us!

The Boljoon Church is the oldest remaining original stone church in Cebu. In 1999, the National Historical Institute declared it a National Historical Landmark. The following year, the National Museum declared it as a National Cultural Treasure.

It was Sunday and I asked what time the mass starts, the man said 10:00 am. While waiting for the mass we stayed outside under a shade, and I took this picture of watch & bell tower also known as the blockhouse.

The bell is being rang for about 30 minutes before the mass starts, this serves as a call to the people. The tower also served as a prison during the 1700's.

From Wikipedia - Boljoon Church shows old and intricate carvings and bass relief. It is in a pseudo-baroque rococo style. The interior is decorated beautifully. It has a main nave, a transcript, and twenty-eight pillars which support the walls. The walls are as thick as the pillars which are two meters thick and made of mortar and lime.

Inside the church, the ceiling is full of flying birds and you can see some of their feces on the bench. The locals don't mind their presence, because the church served as their home.

Outside the church is the plaza. Since it is a small town you can just walk towards the old houses, Bano sa Poblacion and Baluarte sa Fuente.

Baluarte sa Fuente - a watchtower located near the highway bridge. You have to pass by private property to go there, just ask the locals for permission but it is still accessible for public viewing. A bit run-down and badly needs restoration.