Name: Cebu City
Rating: 4.3

Basilica of Sant Nino, Cebu City Overview

Situated in Osmeña Blvd in Cebu City, Basilica del Santo Nino (Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebú) is the oldest church in the Philippines that was built in 1565 by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Also known as Santo Nino Basilica, the original church was built in hard wood, nipa and mud. Unfortunately, the structure was destroyed by fire twice and this is only the third one. The highlight of the church is the age old statuette of Child Jesus that was found here several hundred years ago by a soldier named Juan de Camuz. It was later presented to the chief consort of Rajah Humabon by Ferdinand Magellan. This same statue is still preserved here.

Museum at the Basilica del Santo Nino

There is also a museum that was built at the church to preserve and display old documents dating back to the 17th century, old vestments, antique furniture, church things like chalice, altar table and thurible etc. There are also relics, statues and sculptures of different saints. Built in 1965, the museum was originally established in a convent room but is now situated at the base of the pilgrim centre.

Library at the Basilica del Santo Nino

The library at the Basilica boasts of a host of books in both religious and non- religious subjects like history, science, philosophy, periodicals and Filipiniana etc. It was originally meant for the friars but later in 2000, it opened to all serious nonclerical researchers as well.

Feast at Basilica del Santo Nino

There is a grand feast held at the church every year on the third Sunday of January. The whole city participates in the festivities which are celebrated in the honour of the Senior Sto. Nino, the patron of Cebu. The celebrations last for around 9 to 12 hours which includes a grand street parade, procession and a feast.