Dating back from 1740, the church houses the image of the Holy Child thought to have been left by Magellan in 1521 and recovered by Fray Andres de Urdaneta (of the Legazpi expedition) more than four decades later. Around the church you can find small shops selling rosaries, estampitas and other religious memorabilia. Fridays are busiest although the Basilica is closed daily from 12 noon to 2 pm. This historic must-see is directly under the auspices of the National Museum.

For insights on Cebu’s rich cultural heritage, you can visit the Casa Gorordo Museum . It was built in the 1860s as a private residence by the Bishop Gorordo’s merchant-class family. A fine example of late-Spanish era architecture and native building techniques, the house’ lower part boasts of Mactan coral stonewalls cemented using tree sap. On the other hand, the upper story living quarters consist of pure Philippine Hardwood (tugus) held together with wooden pegs instead of nails in typical hispanic fashion. There are several vintage spanish-era items on display from gorgeous wooden kitchenware, antique photos to a collection of hand cannonsused for launching fireworks. A small fee is paid upon entering the museum/art gallery.