Information about Savidug Stone Houses

Savidug Stone Houses

Savidug Stone Houses are the primary type of dwelling in Batanes, particularly in a small barangay in Sabtang Island. These houses are maintained by the Ivatans, the indigenous people inhabiting the island.

Savidug is a little village located beside a rocky shore. Together with Chavayan, this village remains untouched where villagers still stay historically. The houses ' structures in Savidug village are considered a Sinadumparan type, one of Batanes ' traditional houses.

This type of edifice is characterized by two sloped roofs, which are made of several layers of cogon grass covered with fishing nets or bamboo trellis, and walls built with the use of cobbles and mortar. 

It is said that the cogon grasses last up to 30 years, and the stone walls are as thick as 80 centimeters to one meter, making them strong enough to withstand the usual bad weather in the province. 

Each cogon roof has a specific replacement day. Villagers would work together to finish the Kapayatep roofing and the Mayvuvung re-thatching. This roof replacement process is an excellent example of village Bayanihan, an Ivatan tradition helping each other achieve a common goal.

The structures, all in all, serve as a protection of the inhabitants against the frequent rough winds and heavy rains, making them a symbol of the Ivatans.

How to get there

Savidug Stone Houses is part of Sabtang Island. In order to get here, ride a boat from Ivana Port bound for Sabtang Island.

Best time to visit

It is okay to visit this attraction anytime of day.