Religious site
Magellan's Cross Pavilion
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Magellan's Cross Pavilion, located in a small chapel next to the Basilica del Santo Niño, commemorates the spot where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted a wooden cross in 1521 to claim the islands for Spain and introduce Christianity. The current cross is encased in a hollow wooden cross to protect it from souvenir hunters. Visitors can see the ceiling mural depicting the cross planting and light candles. The site is a popular stop for pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the country's colonial past.
Don't miss
- See the encased original cross, believed to be the one planted by Magellan.
- Admire the ceiling mural depicting the historical event of the cross planting.
- Light a candle and say a prayer in the small chapel.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Magellan's Cross Pavilion
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
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