Information about Plaza Burgos

Plaza Burgos

Photo by City Government of Vigan

Plaza Burgos is a historic public square located beside the St. Paul Cathedral's Bell Tower in the heart of Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. It was built in honor of Father Jose P. Burgos, one of the three Filipino priests who were executed in 1872 by the Spanish authorities on charges of subversion relating to a mutiny in Cavite province against the Spanish colonial forces. The two other priests were Mariano Gomez and Jacinto Zamora. They were collectively known as GOMBURZA, a portmanteau of their surnames.

Inside the plaza stands a monument with the inscriptions of Burgos and statements about his life. You will also find a statue of the priest a few meters away. Along with these monuments, the plaza is also home to a mini-park and playground where the locals and visitors can relax. 

The square, a vibrant hub of cultural and social activity, showcases Vigan's rich heritage and Spanish colonial architecture. Plaza Burgos is not just a historic site but a living, breathing part of the city. It's known for its picturesque surroundings, including the iconic Vigan Cathedral (St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral), which stands adjacent to the plaza. The area is lined with cobblestone streets, ancestral homes, and colonial-era buildings. The plaza is a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists, offering a vibrant glimpse into the daily life of Vigan's residents.

One of the main attractions of Plaza Burgos is its role as a culinary hotspot. It is famous for its food stalls and kiosks that offer traditional Ilocano delicacies such as empanadas, okoy (shrimp fritters), and various street foods. The lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, makes it a must-visit spot for those looking to experience local flavors and the warmth of the Vigan community.

Plaza Burgos is also a venue for cultural events, festivals, and public celebrations, making it a hub for community activities. Its lively atmosphere, historical importance, and delicious local food make Plaza Burgos a beloved landmark and a key attraction in Vigan City.

How to get there

From Manila, you can take a bus bound for Vigan City. Several bus companies, such as Partas, Dominion, and Viron, offer direct trips from Manila to Vigan. The trip typically takes around 8-10 hours. Upon arriving at the Vigan City bus terminal, take a tricycle or a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) to Plaza Burgos, which is a short ride away.

If you’re already in the Ilocos region or in other cities in Ilocos, reaching Vigan City is a straightforward journey. Buses and mini-buses frequently travel to Vigan, connecting it to cities like Laoag or San Fernando. From the Vigan City bus terminal, a quick tricycle or kalesa ride will bring you to Plaza Burgos.

If you prefer a scenic drive, consider driving from Manila to Vigan City. Head north via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), following signs to Ilocos Sur. Enjoy the journey as you pass through major highways like MacArthur Highway or the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX). Once in Vigan City, local signs or a GPS will guide you to Plaza Burgos.

You can also book a flight from Manila to Laoag, and you’ll arrive at Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte. From Laoag, take a bus or van to Vigan City, which is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away. From the bus terminal in Vigan, take a tricycle or kalesa to Plaza Burgos.

For hassle-free travel, you can book Vigan tours or Ilocos tours that will take you to Plaza Burgos. These tours typically include tour guides, transportation, and visits to other Vigan tourist spots or Ilocos tourist attractions.

Best time to visit

It is best to visit the park in the dry season, which usually starts in the latter weeks of December and lasts until the end of May. It is also recommended to drop by in the afternoon, when the sun isn't too high and the weather is generally cooler.