Vigan Childhood: Vigan as a Municipality Then and Vigan as a City Now
In the not-so-distant past, Vigan was a small, peaceful municipality. The streets were narrow, and the cobblestone roads, which are still present today, had a sense of timelessness to them. Life moved at a slower pace, and much of the town’s charm lay in its simplicity. The sound of horse-drawn carriages – locally known as kalesa – was a familiar melody, echoing through the streets as residents went about their daily lives.
The people of Vigan were close-knit, a community that shared rich traditions and customs passed down through generations. There were no modern malls or shopping centers to frequent. Instead, children played outside in the town's open spaces, running through the Plaza Salcedo, where festivals were held. We celebrated milestones together, like fiesta season, which was marked by colorful processions, dances, and the much-awaited empanada and longganisa stands.
The town was far from the bustling metropolis it is today, but it had an undeniable sense of history. The iconic Vigan Cathedral, built during the Spanish colonial period, and the beautiful old Spanish houses that lined the streets, whispered stories of a past era. Life in the municipality was rooted in heritage and simplicity, a reflection of the quiet beauty of Vigan’s rural existence.
Fast forward to today, and Vigan has undergone a significant transformation. In 1999, Vigan was officially declared a city, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its story. With its new status came modernization – and while the old-world charm is still very much intact, the pace of life is now different.
Today, Vigan has embraced progress. New infrastructure, buildings, and businesses have sprouted alongside the well-preserved historical sites. The local economy has diversified, and the town’s tourism industry has flourished, with visitors from all over the world coming to witness the fusion of old and new. The streets once graced by kalesas are now filled with modern vehicles, and shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels have become part of the landscape.
heritage. The kalesa still runs through its streets, offering tourists and residents alike a nostalgic glimpse into the past. The Spanish colonial architecture is carefully preserved, and local artisans continue to make traditional crafts like inabel fabric, burnay pottery, and the famous Vigan longganisa.
The new Vigan is a city that thrives on tourism and commerce while also embracing its roots. The town is no longer just a quiet provincial area; it's a place that balances progress with preservation. The iconic Calle Crisologo, once the backdrop for childhood memories of Vigan’s younger residents, has become a tourist haven, with its charming old houses, antique shops, and quaint cafes attracting visitors from all over the globe. It’s a testament to how Vigan has managed to embrace both its past and its future.
Growing up in Vigan was an experience that instilled in me a deep appreciation for heritage, simplicity, and the community. There was a sense of safety, familiarity, and warmth that came with living in a small municipality. As children, we roamed the streets freely, knowing everyone around us. The air was filled with the scent of fresh empanada and tupig, and the sound of the church bells reminded us of the town’s strong connection to faith.
Now, as Vigan has transitioned into a city, there are certain aspects of the old days that I hold dear – the quiet mornings, the leisurely strolls along the river, and the deep sense of connection to the land. Yet, I also celebrate the vibrancy that the city has brought. There is a new energy in Vigan, one that blends the old with the new. It's heartening to see how the town has managed to evolve without losing its soul.
Vigan, as a municipality and now as a city, is a living testament to resilience, heritage, and community. It has faced change, yet it remains rooted in its culture, traditions, and the memories of childhoods spent under the shade of its old trees. In a rapidly modernizing world, Vigan stands as a reminder that it’s possible to grow and flourish without forgetting where you came from.
As Vigan continues to develop and grow, it will undoubtedly face new challenges. But one thing is certain – it will always hold onto the essence of what made it special. It is a city that will continue to honor its past while embracing the future. The fusion of heritage and modernity is a delicate balance, but Vigan has proven time and again that it is up to the task.
For those of us who grew up in Vigan, the journey from municipality to city has been both exciting and bittersweet. But no matter how much the town changes, Vigan will always be home. A place where history, culture, and childhood memories live on, shaping the future one step at a time.
LINKS:
https://www.expedia.com/Vigan.dx6144928
https://www.audleytravel.com/us/the-philippines/places-to-go/vigan
https://www.audleytravel.com/us/the-philippines/places-to-go/vigan
https://www.audleytravel.com/us/the-philippines/places-to-go/vigan
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