MINOR BASILICA OF THE HOLY CHILD OF CEBU

The Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu, or Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines. Founded in 1565, it houses the revered Santo Niño statue, symbolizing the birth of Christianity in the country. The basilica is a key religious and cultural site.

The Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu, commonly known as Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, located in Cebu City. It was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi upon discovering a miraculous statue of the Santo Niño (Holy Child), believed to be a gift from Ferdinand Magellan to Rajah Humabon and his wife in 1521. This revered statue is now enshrined in the basilica, making it a central symbol of Christianity in the Philippines.

The basilica has undergone several reconstructions due to fires and natural disasters, yet it remains a significant religious and historical landmark. It serves as the focal point of devotion for millions of Filipinos, particularly during the annual Sinulog Festival, which celebrates the Santo Niño. The church's rich heritage, spiritual significance, and stunning architecture make it a major pilgrimage site and a cornerstone of Filipino Catholicism.