Bantay Bell Tower — Attraction in Ilocos Sur

My recent visit to Bantay, Vigan City, Ilocos Region, Philippines was an absolute delight and a definite highlight of my travels! The iconic Bantay Bell Tower is truly impressive. The weathered brick and commanding presence offer a wonderful glimpse into the past, making it a fantastic spot for photos and providing a strong sense of historical grandeur. The view from the top (or even just looking up at it) is captivating, and it's easy to imagine its long history overlooking the area.

Directly adjacent to the bell tower, the St. Augustine Parish Church is stunning. The interior is richly decorated, particularly the altar, which is a true work of art. The atmosphere inside is very peaceful and reverent, making it a great place for quiet reflection and to appreciate religious artistry. It's a beautiful example of well-preserved Filipino religious architecture.

The area around the bell tower and church is well-maintained with green spaces, inviting paths, and even some friendly local goats roaming around! This adds a unique, laid-back charm to the historical sites. Finding the "I ❤️ Bantay" sign was a fun photo opportunity, perfectly capturing the spirit of the visit.

Overall, Bantay offers a beautiful blend of history, culture, and natural charm. It's clear that this is a place steeped in tradition, and the preservation of its landmarks is commendable. As someone who appreciates history and unique experiences, I found Bantay to be incredibly rewarding. It's a must-visit when you're in the Vigan City area. The locals are welcoming, and the overall atmosphere is very pleasant, making it a highly recommended addition to your itinerary for a memorable...

Historic Watch Tower. Mini outdoor chapel outside Bantay Church too if you need to take a restroom break for a donation. Entrance to watch tower grounds asks for a donation and registration prior to entry. The cultural minimum for locals is at 10 pesos or up. In Filipino culture, it is phrased as a donation, but the shame of losing face from not giving would make you give. It's for the upkeep of the tower, consider it like a small environmental fee like when you go to local beaches. Economically, the donation is just a drop in the ocean and may not be enough to preserve it. The watch tower was closed when we arrived, so we could only take photos from the outside. At the time, people weren't climbing up and stayed near the ground.

There are locals there who would offer to take your photo. One particular old man looked desperate to eat. Already rejected him yet kept coming back and begged the group. I let him take my photo with the tricks, just gave a tip afterwards. The tricks were fun to do anyways. It would seem like you're holding the bell tower from above, pushing, or holding it from below. You can also do some tricks with the clay jar pot. Just check the picture afterwards because the photos could get out of focus. If you like towers, this is a must-see even from afar.

With the tower closed, there's nothing much to do. Hope they reopen the...

A religious heritage site built in the 1950s.

The Bantay Bell Tower is an absolute must-visit when you're in Ilocos Sur! Perched on a hill overlooking the town, this historic structure offers not only a glimpse into the past but also breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Abra River.

Climbing to the top is relatively easy, and the effort is well worth it. You get to see the massive bells up close and appreciate the aged brickwork and architecture. The view from theark is simply stunning, especially during sunset when the sky puts on a colorful show. It's a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts.

The tower is located right next to the beautiful St. Augustine Parish Church, making it convenient to visit both historical sites together. The area around the tower is peaceful and well-maintained, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or simply enjoying the breeze. There's usually a small fee to climb the tower, which is understandable for its upkeep. The locals managing the area are friendly and helpful.

Overall, the Bantay Bell Tower offers a unique blend of history, stunning views, and a tranquil setting. Highly recommend adding this to your Ilocos...