Crisologo Museum — Attraction in Vigan

Crisologo Museum, located in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, is an ancestral house turned into a museum by the Crisologos, who happens to be one of Vigan’s most prominent political family figures. This museum in the Philippines is a few walks away from the Vigan Cathedral.

It is famous not only because of the family name attached to it but with its wide range of memorabilia as it also houses historical and political remains of what shaped the Ilocos province and the whole Philippines.

Floro S. Crisologo was one of the popular congressmen and was the head of the Crisologo family who ruled in Vigan in the 1970s. The surname grew popularity and love from the residents of the North as he authored some laws that created the University of Northern Philippines. He is also the one who is behind the establishment of the Social Security System that helped thousands of Filipinos today.

When he was at the St. Paul’s Cathedral one Sunday, Floro was shot in the head by an unidentified gunman that even until today no one can name of. He was survived by his children and wife, Carmeling Crisologo. The remaining Crisologos stated that they will not seek revenge but would like to honor the patriarch by turning the ancestral house into a museum that we see today.

Crisologo Museum is located at A. Reyes Street, Vigan, Ilocos Sur. The easiest way to get to the attraction is by a guided Vigan tour or by riding a jeepney going to Silang Street. Ask the driver to drop you off at Calle Crisologo. From there, it is a 2- 3 minute walk...

I really loved this museum! Unlike the Padre Burgos Ancestral House, which felt almost bare (most items there are replicas and probably only 5% original), the Crisologo Museum is filled with authentic pieces that bring history to life.

You’ll find so many fascinating personal items—from Carmeling Crisologo’s beautifully coordinated bags and shoes, to the actual car where an attempt was made on her life, even down to original election posters. It’s not just a building; it’s a space full of stories and details that make you feel connected to the past.

Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged—and I truly recommend giving one. This museum doesn’t receive government funding, and it’s clear that the staff and caretakers keep it alive out of love and dedication. Their passion shows when they share the background and history of Floro Crisologo and his legacy.

This is definitely a must-visit if you want to experience a museum that’s both meaningful and full...

I personally think the museum's overall ambiance could be better. Nonetheless, I am quite fascinated by the artifacts displayed therein. They seem well preserved despite the fact that they are simply exposed (i.e. not encased or whatever) and easy to touch (although signs say HANDS OFF - quite rude, I think haha). The guides/ushers are not exactly very warm, though (at least not to us). They are kind, with smiles, but I wish they were a lot warmer (they seemed nicer to the other tourists). One was even watching some show in her phone while waiting for us to leave a certain area. Anyway, the museum is about the artifacts, not them, so it's not a big deal, really. No entrance fee, by the way. But you might be asked to give some donation. Documents, modes of transports, house furniture and appliances (still can't believe they had refrigerator! Haha!), clothes, uniforms, paintings, and other vintage stuff - these are among the things you will find in...