Melo Villareal
Burgos Lighthouse
Ilocos Norte, Philippines — While you are in Ilocos Norte, don’t miss seeing one of the most iconic views in the province. Near Burgos Town is one of the most beautiful parolas in the Philippine Islands. The Cape Bojeador Lighthouse has been bringing vessels to safety since it was completed in 1890. In a country that is made up of more than 7000 islands, you will see plenty of lighthouses but the one in Burgos is exceptional.
There are thousands of travelers who make special trips around the world to see lighthouses and when they come to the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, they are never disappointed.
First of all, there is a stunning view from the cape. Looking out to sea here, you can understand why it was important to have a lighthouse in this spot. The rocky shoreline of the South China Sea is gorgeous and you can just tell that it is treacherous, especially for wood ships and boats.
History
The Cape Bojeador lighthouse was part of the Spanish government’s master plan of illuminating the Philippine archipelago. The project commenced with the execution of the lighthouses in the northern and western part of the Philippines and those around Iloilo and Cebu. The Burgos lighthouse was first lit on March 30, 1892.
The Design
The lighthouse was first designed by Magin Pers y Pers in 1887 and was finished by the Lighthouse Service under Guillermo Brockman. It is typical of the Spanish Colonial lighthouses which is all masonry made with bricks that are widely used and produced in the area. The octagonal tower is topped with a bronze cupola and the viewing gallery is surrounded by decorative iron grill works.
The lighthouse itself is of stone and coral construction with a delicate railing around the signal light itself. This combination of delicate and solid makes a stunning contrast as you look up at the lighthouse.
You will look up at it too, since it is the highest lighthouse in the Philippines. It sits atop a hill called Vigia de Nagparitan near the town of Burgos.
The lighthouse keeper may advise you not to go inside because of the aging condition of the structure, but I suggest you thank him and then go in. The architectural stylings inside are as beautiful as that outside and you won’t find views like those from the lighthouse itself in many places. The iron grillwork is especially impressive and if you have an artistic eye, you might be able to get some photos that will truly capture this place forever.
Historical markers
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse was declared a National Historical Landmark on August 13, 2004, and a National Cultural Treasure on June 20, 2005, by the Philippine Government.
How to get to Cape Bojeador
By car:
- From Burgos Municipal Hall, take the M. Perucho St then turn right to Pres. Ignacio St then left to Pan-Philippine Highway.
- After about 7km, turn left to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse Road.
Entrance Fee:
Php 50 per person.
Check out our complete list of affordable hotels and resorts via Agoda or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
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Also read: Top Road Trip Destinations in Luzon, Philippines
