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Historic Town of Vigan

Philippines
Date of Inscription: 1999
Criteria: (ii)(iv)
Province of Ilocos Sur
N17 34 30 E120 23 15
Ref: 502rev

Brief Description

Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia.

Justification for Inscription

Criterion (ii): Vigan represents a unique fusion of Asian building design and construction with European colonial architecture and planning. Criterion (iv): Vigan is an exceptionally intact and well preserved example of a European trading town in East and South-East Asia.

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