This museum is not that big, but it packs a lot of history. My favorite was during The World War…read moreII. I didn't know that the Filipinos had briefly used Japanese currency. Their new "Rice of Gods" room was amazing. Our tour guide mentioned a private donor from a Filipino philanthropist, donated everything in the room to share the history of Cebu. We were also educated that Museo Gugbo was originally a prison. There were still marks of prisoners name and other carvings during that era. One highlight that was also a favorite of mine was the walk of fame wall where all the past Presidents of the Philippines were hung in portrait paintings. Next to their portraits shares a brief history of their life and accomplishments during their time in office. I highly recommend if you have time during your visit to Cebu City, pay a visit here. You will learn a great deal about Philippine history and the native tribes of Cebu. Cheers!

Located on m.j cuenco ave., if coming from the colon area, it'll be on the right side…read more There is a street right before you see the front entrance to the museum (again coming from colon), make the turn and you'll see a gate to the left. Honk your horn if its closed and security will open the gates to lead you towards the parking area. Parking appeared to be limited maybe good for 5-6 vehicles. I'm not sure if they have other areas to park as there seem to be a narrow alley, ahead of the pebbled parking area, that possibly can accomodate one more vehicle. Parking is free. We went about 3:00 pm-ish and there weren't many people there. You make your way towards the front of the museum to pay the entrance fee (locals paid 30 pesos and I believe it was 75 pesos for foreigners. They also have discounts for senior citizens and students). So you go pass the gazebo structure from the parking lot, then cross the courtyard towards a fountain. Someone at a small desk will point you in the direction to where you make the payment then politely ask you to sign a guest book. Then you make your way around. You may opt for a guide (which we were told was free of charge) but we decided to explore the museum ourselves. There will be 4 areas where there is air conditioning, and ends after the world war 2 exhibit. There are interesting excerpts from history as well as artifacts. I particularly found the world war 2 area most interesting, though I wish there were more artifacts and maybe some interactive activites that can really immerse someone during that time in history. After leaving the world war 2 exhibit you head down a steep stairway, if you are tall be careful of the overhead. I consider myself short and even then I felt as if I was gonna bump my head. So be careful. The courtyard was spacious. There are a couple more exhibits around the courtyard that include maps and blue prints of various structures, cities and different islands in the Philippines. As previously stated, wish there were more artifacts to see and maybe an activity or two. However, what was displayed was informative and left me wanting to learn more about the Philippines and Cebu's history. Thank you for having a musem such as this to introduce us to Cebu's history. (tip: they allow you to take pictures, but without flash)

Dubbed "The Taj Mahal of Cebu" this colossal shrine is a true testament of one man's commitment of…read moreeternal love and devotion to his dearly departed wife. The first thing not to help but notice at drive in is a good sized water fountain in the middle of the grounds. As there was a crowd within the temple itself, I decided to do a lookout down below. What a beautiful 180 degree view of Cebu. Even the airport will be on your line of sight. That alone made the drive worth it. After taking all that view in, I finally decided to tackle the crowd and walk up to the very main temple. One can't help but notice the two lion statues in between stairs. At the very center is a gold plated statue of Teodorico Soriano Adarna's beloved wife, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna, surrounded by Greek-type and designed engineering and architecture. There are a few hallways on both sides of the first floor to showcase room filled with antiques and collections of paintings, furniture, vases and the like. It's pretty impressive, gotta say. There's a small cafe near the water fountain for refreshments, snacks and libations. It came in pretty handy during a hot June visit! Gone are the entrance fee of P50Php/person. It's now up to P120/pp on the weekdays and P150/pp on the weekends. Just like Teodorico's love for Leah, construction is still ongoing - for maintenance and additions. And with the way things are going and with so many visitors, I'd project it will continue to improve and grow. It is worth the visit, if only for photo ops! A definite must stop when in Cebu!

I was completely amazed after arriving to this temple. I read all the reviews of people who seem to…read morehave been underwhelmed or at least, in my opinion, under rated this place. Upon arrival you walk out on this massive terrace with a beautifully sculpted fountain that overlooks Cebu city. The statuary was elegant and profound. The designer/ creator put a lot of time and effort into creating such a serene terrace that just makes you want to sit and enjoy a nice cafe and breathe in the rich history. Once you get to the temple you're greeted with live music, more statues, and beautiful marble. You get a nice run down on the history from plaques and lots of amazing photo opportunities if you're into pleasing "followers". Highly recommend this place if in Cebu city.

Boy, talk about wrong timing! We came through only to find out it's closed for restoration and…read morerenovations! But the backstory to this place: it is the very first known museum established in Negros Occidental. This structure was built by Victor Gaston after his wife died to house him and his dozen children. It had its hey days but it became unused and actually fell in disrepair in the 70's. However, an heir decided to donate the historical structure to the Tourism Authority in provision it is restored. It now houses many artifacts that help give an idea how it was living in the 19th century. There will be future visits to Bacolod (I've got fam her!) so here's hoping it'll be fully restored and open by the time that next time comes around!