Bantay Church and Belfry
4:11 PM
Place: Bantay Belfry
Location: Bantay district of Vigan
Fees: Donation only
Travel Time: around 10 mins from Vigan
Best Time to Go: 5pm or before sunset
MUST know: Bring a bottle of water and Towel
We were roaming around Calle Crisologo when we took a Calesa ride. The driver invited us to go to Bantay Belfy during the Calesa Tour, which we agreed. It took as around 10 mins from Calle Crisologo and it was extremely hot when we reached the place. Just to give you a head up, Calesa Tour costs 150 php for 1 hour ride. So no matter how many hours you spent on one location, your time will continue to run. So my advice? if you're planning to ride a Calesa, put this on your bottom list since it will consume most of your time.
Amazing View
Upon entering the Belfry, You must climb flights of stairs that can be seen from the entrance
in the tower’s base. It was extremely hot but it we really wanted to go inside.
Going up is a challenge because of the stairs but from time to time, you'll see a panoramic view of the land.
But what's more challenging part for me, is the wooden stairs that you have to climb before the reaching top of the Belfry. I swear, it took me few minutes before I reached the top because you can see the bottom view from the spaces in between the stairs.
Finally, after a scary climb ( with excessive sweating). I was able to reach the top and I immediately hugged the huge, old Bell hanging.
My fear didin't stop because It's really scary to move. The Floor was made of good quality old woods and the surroundings is made up of bricks which are still in good condition.
Picturesque View
The view was ravishing, everything is just so perfect. You can see a good view of surroundings and despite the small space, you'll see people taking their own spots for picture taking. An old man also told us that this is where Kampanerang Kuba (popular Filipino TV Series) and Panday ( popular movie) were shot.
After few mintutes of picture taking and sight seeing, we went down and again, I had to be careful watching my steps. The Exit is different from the Entry point and it will lead you through St. Augustine Church. It was named after St. Augustine, who was the patron saint by the Augustinian friars.
This is the best place to offer your prayers and sentiments. I am glad that I was able to paid visit and Thumbs up to Ilocanos for preserving this historical place. Just don't forget to bring your towel and a bottle of water because roaming around the place involves so much strength and effort but I promise, you will surely love this place.
" Never be afraid to try new things, and make some mistakes, it's all part of life and learning."
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