Carcar Tourist Spots: Top Things to Do in the Historic City
Carcar, a fifth-class component city of Cebu Province, Philippines, is known for its rich history and heritage. It is home to several ancestral houses, museums, and churches that showcase the town’s cultural and architectural significance. Carcar is also famous for its delicacies, such as lechon and chicharon, that attract food enthusiasts worldwide.
Tourists who want to explore Carcar’s cultural and historical sites should not miss visiting the Theotokos Shrine. It is a peaceful place for reflection and prayer and offers a stunning view of the town’s landscape. Another must-visit site is the Mancao Ancestral House, built by one of Carcar’s prominent families during the American era. The house’s interior showcases the family’s collection of antiques and memorabilia. For those interested in history, the Carcar Dispensary Museum is a great place to learn about the town’s healthcare system during the Spanish colonial era.
Getting to Carcar
If you plan to visit Carcar, here’s what you need to know about getting there.
By Air
The nearest airport to Carcar is the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located in Mactan, about 40 kilometers away from Carcar. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to get to Carcar. The taxi ride takes about 1 hour and costs around PHP 1,500. The bus ride takes about 2 hours and costs around PHP 120.
By Land
If you’re coming from other parts of Cebu, you can take a bus or a van to get to Carcar. The Cebu South Bus Terminal in Cebu City has buses that go to Carcar regularly. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and costs around PHP 120. Vans are also available and offer a faster and more convenient option. The van ride takes about 45 minutes and costs around PHP 170.
By Sea
If you’re coming from other islands in the Philippines, you can take a ferry to Cebu City and then take a bus or a van to get to Carcar. The nearest port to Carcar is the Bato Port in Samboan, which is about 20 kilometers away. From the port, you can take a bus or a van to get to Carcar. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around PHP 20. The van ride takes about 20 minutes and costs around PHP 50.
Top Attractions in Carcar
Carcar is a popular destination for travelers looking to taste the old-world charm of the province of Cebu. With its rich history and culture, this city has many things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions that should not be missed.
Carcar City Museum
Discover the captivating history of Carcar City through the Carcar City Museum. This museum, the first to be established by a local government unit in Southern Cebu, houses a myriad of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the city’s Spanish colonial heritage and its role in the Philippine Revolution. View a traditional corn milling stone, costumes worn by Carcar contingents in performances, and old news clippings.
On the walls, visitors can trace the timeline of Carcar’s history from the Pleistocene period to the present day. The museum building, built in the 1900s, is an architectural landmark with its profusion of latticework, semicircular transoms, carved barandillas, and mini-canopies. Open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, the Carcar City Museum is an essential stop for anyone wanting to learn about the city’s past.
Rotunda
The Rotunda is a popular landmark in Carcar and serves as the city’s central roundabout. It is located near the city hall and is a great spot for taking photos and people-watching. The Rotunda is also home to several food stalls and vendors selling local delicacies.
Exploring Carcar’s Markets
Carcar is known for its bustling markets, where visitors can find a wide range of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. There are two main markets in Carcar: the Public Market and the Dry Market.
Public Market
The Public Market in Carcar is a vibrant hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to live pigs. Visitors can stroll through the market’s narrow aisles, taking in the sights and sounds of local life. One of the highlights of the Public Market is the meat section, where rows of freshly slaughtered pigs hang from hooks. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s a fascinating glimpse into the local food culture.
Dry Market
The Dry Market in Carcar is a covered market specializing in non-perishable goods. Visitors can find a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. The market is particularly known for its woven baskets made by local artisans using traditional techniques. The Dry Market is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.
Churches and Religious Landmarks
Carcar is a city that is rich in history and culture. It is also a place where religious landmarks and churches abound. Visitors who are interested in religious sites will find plenty to explore in this city.
Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria
One of the most popular religious landmarks in Carcar is the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria. This church is considered as one of the oldest in Cebu, with its construction dating back to the 18th century. It is a beautiful structure that boasts of intricate carvings and ornate details that are typical of Spanish colonial architecture.
Inside the church, visitors can marvel at the beautiful stained-glass windows that depict scenes from the Bible. They can also admire the altar, which is adorned with gold leaf and features a statue of St. Catherine of Alexandria, the church’s patron saint.
Theotokos Shrine
Visitors to Carcar City should not miss the opportunity to explore the Theotokos Shrine, a pilgrimage site home to the statue of Our Lady of the Family. This ancient site is renowned for the mysterious ‘dancing light’ phenomena, and upon closer inspection, a fifteenth-century antique base for a monstrance bearing the monogram AM, Ave Maria, was discovered. The shrine is a beautiful and peaceful place to explore, with steps leading to the Blessed Sacrament under the altar and a window providing a stunning view of the natural scenery.
During religious festivals, the statue of the Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus is adorned with flowers and other decorations, making it a sight to behold. Visitors can also explore the nearby chapel dedicated to Mother of Our Lord, Mary Most Holy, and take the time to offer prayers and reflect on their spiritual journey.
Local Delicacies of Carcar
Carcar is known for its rich history and beautiful tourist spots, but it is also famous for its mouth-watering delicacies. Here are some of the local delicacies that you should not miss when visiting Carcar:
Lechon
Lechon is a must-try when in Carcar. It is a roasted pig that is cooked over an open fire, resulting in crispy skin and tender meat. The lechon in Carcar is known for its distinct flavor and aroma, making it one of the best in the country. Some of the best places to try lechon in Carcar are Rico’s Lechon and Carcar Lechon.
Chicharon
Chicharon is another popular delicacy in Carcar. It is made from pork rinds that are fried until crispy. The chicharon in Carcar is known for its light and airy texture, making it a perfect snack. You can find chicharon in almost every corner of the city, but some of the best places to try it are Chicharon Bulaklak and Chicharon Mercado.
Ampao
Ampao or rice crispies is a popular Carcar specialty. It is made from glutinous rice that is cooked with sugar and then flattened into thin sheets. The ampao in Carcar is known for its sweet and crunchy texture, making it a perfect snack for those with a sweet tooth. You can find ampao in almost every store in Carcar, but some of the best places to try it are Ampao Plaza and Ampao Suki.
Heritage Houses of Carcar
Carcar City is known for its well-preserved heritage houses that showcase its rich history and culture. These houses are a testament to the city’s architectural heritage and are a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Mercado Mansion
Steeped in history and culture, the Mercado Mansion is a must-see for anyone visiting Carcar. Built in the early 1900s, this two-storey bahay-na-bato painted Mediterranean blue served as the residence of the Mercado family, one of the most prominent families in Carcar during the Spanish colonial period.
Visitors can explore its many rooms and learn about the history of the family and the city. Declared a Heritage House by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2009, the Mercado Mansion is a unique and fascinating glimpse into the past.
Balay na Tisa
As I step through the doors of Balay na Tisa, it’s like I’m being transported back to 1859. This heritage house is one of the oldest in Carcar, Cebu and its unique architecture is a beautiful blend of Spanish and Filipino influences. Made of tisa or clay roof tiles, the house has stood the test of time for over 150 years and is still in excellent condition.
Inside, I’m surrounded by antique furniture, cabinets, tables, chairs, and clocks that have been in the house since it was first built. It’s a truly special experience to be able to explore the house and imagine what life was like for the people who lived here all those years ago.
Silva House
Discover the unique architectural style of Carcar at the Silva House, a beautifully restored heritage home. Admire the intricate wood carvings and the striking red-brick facade, which were originally created for the long-serving priest who owned the house until Dr. Nemesio S. Silva inherited it.
Declared a Heritage House by the National Historical Institute in 2010, the Silva House is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Outdoor Adventures in Carcar
Carcar offers a range of outdoor adventures for tourists looking to explore nature and get their adrenaline pumping.
Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park
Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park is a paradise tucked away in the central Mantalongon mountain range, located 50 kilometers from Cebu City. Spanning 57.50 hectares, the park is a protected area of the Philippines declared a national park in 1972 by Republic Act No. 6429. Visitors flock to the park for its hot springs, cottages, pools, and life-size statues of saints and Christ, including the iconic Santo Niño de Cebú.
There are also several caves to explore, the most popular being Cave Lorett and Cave Moymoy. Near Cave Lorett, you can find another spring and four rivers. Plus, the park is home to a dam that supplies Carcar’s water. Come and discover the beauty of Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park!
Festivals and Cultural Events
Carcar is a city that is rich in culture and history, and it is not surprising that it is home to a variety of social and cultural events throughout the year. These events showcase the city’s unique traditions and customs and provide visitors with a glimpse into the local way of life.
Kabkaban Festival
Every year, the people of Carcar come together to celebrate the Kabkaban Festival, a three-day extravaganza of vibrant street dancing, colorful parades, and captivating cultural performances. From November 23 to 25, the town is alive with the sights and sounds of this beloved local festival, which pays homage to the town’s namesake, St. Catherine of Alexandria.
In addition to the festivities, visitors can enjoy traditional food and drinks, while taking in the beautiful scenery of the Oakleaf Fern (Aglaomorpha quercifolia), which is plentiful in the town. Join us for the Kabkaban Festival and experience the culture, faith, and music of Carcar!
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Carcar is a beautiful city in Cebu Island that offers a lot of attractions and activities for tourists. Here are some travel tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit:
Reviews
Before visiting Carcar, reading reviews of the tourist spots and activities you plan to visit is a good idea. You can find reviews on websites like Tripadvisor and Shellwanders. Reading reviews can give you an idea of what to expect and help you plan your itinerary.
Book in Advance
Some tourist spots in Carcar, such as the Carcar Dispensary Museum, may require advance booking. It’s always a good idea to check the availability and book in advance to avoid disappointment.
May is the Best Time to Visit
May is the best time to visit Carcar as it is the month of the city’s fiesta celebration. The city is full of colorful decorations, lively music, and delicious food during this time. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
Be Prepared for Rainfall
Carcar experiences rainfall throughout the year but is more frequent from June to December. Bringing a raincoat or umbrella is always a good idea, especially during these months.
Respect Local Customs
When visiting Carcar, it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. For example, when visiting religious sites like the Theotokos Shrine or St. Catherine of Alexandria Church, it’s important to dress modestly and behave respectfully.
Try the Local Cuisine
Carcar is famous for its local cuisine, including the Carcar Lechon and Carcar Chicharon. Make sure to try these delicious dishes during your visit. You can also visit the local market to buy fresh fruits and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-visit tourist spots in Carcar City?
Carcar City has a lot of tourist spots that are worth visiting. The Theotokos Shrine, Mancao Ancestral House, Carcar Dispensary Museum, and Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park are some of the must-visit tourist spots in Carcar City. These attractions offer a glimpse into the city’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
How much does it cost to travel from Cebu City to Carcar by bus?
The cost of traveling from Cebu City to Carcar by bus varies depending on the bus company and the type of bus. On average, a one-way trip can cost around Php 50 to Php 80 per person. The travel time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
What is the history of Carcar City?
Carcar City has a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial period. It was founded in 1599 and was once a thriving trading center for sugarcane and tobacco. The city played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution against Spain and later became a municipality in 1901. Today, Carcar City is known for its well-preserved heritage houses and structures that reflect its colonial past.
What are some popular products that can be found in Carcar?
Carcar City is famous for its handmade shoes, which are made from high-quality leather and are known for their durability and style. The city is also known for its delicacies, such as chicharon (pork cracklings), ampao (rice crispies), and lechon (roasted pig).
What is there to do in Carcar City Plaza?
Carcar City Plaza is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can stroll around the park and admire the beautiful landscape and historical monuments. They can also enjoy a picnic with family and friends or try some of the local delicacies from nearby food stalls.
What are some famous delicacies that Carcar is known for?
Carcar is known for its mouth-watering delicacies, such as chicharon (pork cracklings), ampao (rice crispies), and lechon (roasted pig). The city’s lechon is particularly famous for its crispy skin and juicy meat. Visitors can also try the city’s famous delicacy, the Carcar torta, a sweet bread filled with grated coconut and margarine.
Carcar City is a great destination for those who want to experience the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Cebu. With its well-preserved heritage sites, delicious delicacies, and scenic attractions, Carcar City is definitely worth a visit.
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