Magellan's Cross is a historic landmark in Cebu City, Philippines. Planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, it marks the arrival of Christianity in the country. Enclosed within a chapel, the cross symbolizes a significant moment in Philippine history and remains a popular pilgrimage site.
Magellan's Cross is a significant historical and religious landmark located in Cebu City, Philippines. It was planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan on April 14, 1521, to mark the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. The cross commemorates the baptism of Rajah Humabon, his wife, and around 800 of their followers, symbolizing the start of Christianity in the region.
Enclosed within a small chapel called the "Kiosk of Magellan's Cross," the original cross is believed to be encased in a wooden structure to protect it from the elements and prevent it from being chipped away by devout pilgrims who believed in its miraculous powers. The chapel itself is located near the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, another important religious site in Cebu.
Magellan’s Cross is not only a symbol of the country’s rich history but also serves as a significant pilgrimage site, attracting both local devotees and international tourists interested in its historical and spiritual legacy.