Magellan's Cross

Location: The cross is located in Plaza Sugbo, near the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino and the Cebu City Hall in Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines.
Opening hours: The cross is open to the public daily, from 8:00 am. to 6:00 pm.
Admission rate: There is no admission fee to visit the cross.
Reason for visit: A iconic landmarks in Cebu City and a must-visit for history buffs and pilgrims; It easy for visitors to explore the surrounding attractions; A great picture spot and a place to pray

Magellan's Cross is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cebu City, Philippines. It is a wooden cross that commemorates the arrival of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in Cebu in 1521, and his conversion of the local ruler Rajah Humabon and his subjects to Christianity. The cross is housed in a small chapel near the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country.

Architectural Beauty and Ceiling Frescoes

The chapel that shelters the cross is a simple yet elegant structure, with a red-tiled roof and white walls. The cross itself is encased in a hollow tindalo wood to protect it from termites and other damage. The original cross is believed to be still inside the tindalo wood.

The most striking feature of the chapel is the ceiling, which is adorned with colorful frescoes depicting scenes from the history of Cebu and the Philippines. The paintings were done by local artists in 1834, and they showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. Some of the scenes include the baptism of Rajah Humabon and his wife Hara Amihan, the planting of the cross by Magellan and his men, the battle of Mactan where Magellan was killed by Lapu-Lapu, and the arrival of Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in 1565.

A Must-Visit for History Buffs and Pilgrims

Magellan's Cross is more than just a historical monument, it is also a symbol of faith and devotion for many Filipinos. It is a popular destination for pilgrims, especially during the Sinulog Festival, which is held every third Sunday of January to honor the Santo Niño, or the Child Jesus. The festival is a colorful and festive celebration of Cebu's patron saint, with street dances, parades, and religious processions.

The cross is also a must-visit for history buffs, as it offers a glimpse into the colonial past of the Philippines and the influence of Christianity on its culture. The cross is a reminder of the first contact between the East and the West, and the beginning of the Spanish colonization of the archipelago.

A Great Picture Spot and a Place to Pray

Magellan's Cross is not only a historical and religious site, but also a great picture spot for tourists and locals alike. The cross and the chapel provide a stunning contrast to the modern buildings and busy streets that surround them. The ceiling frescoes also offer a beautiful backdrop for photos, as they capture the vibrant colors and details of the paintings. You can also offer candles and pray at the cross, as many believe that it has miraculous powers and can grant wishes. There are vendors outside the chapel who sell candles of different colors, each representing a different intention or request. 

It is better to visit the cross during weekdays, as there are less people and more chances to take photos and appreciate the site. However, if you want to experience the festive atmosphere of the Sinulog Festival, you can also visit during the third week of January, but be prepared for large crowds and traffic jams.

Accessibility and Nearby Attractions

Magellan's Cross is in the heart of Cebu City, and it is easily accessible by public transportation or by foot. The adjacent zone, with its dynamic ambiance and local merchants, enriches the entire journey.  There are also many attractions nearby that are worth visiting, such as the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, which houses a revered image of the Child Jesus that was given by Magellan to Rajah Humabon's wife; the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, which is the seat of the Archdiocese of Cebu; the Fort San Pedro, which is the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines; and the Plaza Independencia, which is a public park that features statues of national heroes and a fountain.

How to get there

The cross is easily accessible by public transportation or by foot. If you are coming from Mactan Cebu International Airport, the most convenient way is to ride a Mybus going to SM Cebu City, then ride a jeepney with route code 10M or 12I. Ask your driver to drop you off at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. From there, Magellan's Cross is within walking distance. You can also join a guided tour for a more convenient way to reach this destination
alongside other attractions.