Information about San Sebastian Cathedral

San Sebastian Cathedral

The San Sebastian Cathedral is a historic church that was constructed in the province of Bacolod in Negros Occidental back in the late 19th century. The parish was named after Saint Sebastian, a Christian saint and martyr, who was known among the locals as San Sebastian. The first missionaries that arrived in the village where the cathedral was located also placed the chapel under the protection of Saint Sebastian, making him its patron saint. 

The initial church began construction in 1825 but was eventually replaced to give way to the structure that currently stands in Bacolod City. Construction of the cathedral you see today started in 1876 and incorporated coral stones from Guimaras Island into the building material. 

How to get there

The best way to reach the San Sebastian Cathedral is by taking a taxi or renting a car. The cathedral is only about 18 KM from the Bacolod-Silay Airport and is located along Rizal Street inside the Bacolod City proper. Aside from taking private vehicles, you can also ride public transport options such as tricycles and jeepneys to get to the San Sebastian Cathedral. 
If you prefer guided tours, you can also book vacation packages that include a stop at the cathedral in the itinerary. 

Best time to visit

As a cathedral that still holds mass daily, travelers can visit this historic site year-round. However, it is best to visit in January as this is when the parish and the local community celebrate the fiesta of Saint Sebastian.
Meanwhile, for those who wish to admire the church's intricate architecture, it is best to visit before sunset to get a better look at the church's grand designs. It is also recommended to arrive here before 8 PM as this is when the church often closes and prepares for a new day.