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Showing posts from June, 2025

Under the Octagon Pavilion: A Little Info About The Magellan's Cross

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  The Magellan’s Cross has been the image when someone talks about Cebu. It has become the face of Cebu’s rich history and culture, the mark of a Cebuano identity, and a landmark that no tourist can miss.  But before diving into the information about the Magellan’s Cross, let us turn back time, and return to the 16 th century… Back when Cebu’s port was bustling with merchants and locals, exchanging their goods for some items crafted from the far seas.  It was the reign of Rajah Humabon, and Cebu’s port was its powerhouse, bringing riches into the land. Because of this, on April 21, 1521, the fleet of Magellan arrived on its shores, not only to trade but to colonize and convert. Once the boats were permitted to anchor on the shores, Ferdinand Magellan and his men set foot on the island and planted a cross, signifying the beginning of Christianity in Cebu.  According to some, the original cross, planted by Magellan, was enclosed inside the displayed cross that...