Plaza Independencia

Plaza Independencia is said to be the most historically significant plaza in Cebu. It's name says it all, the symbol of independence and freedom from all the conquerors that tried to take over the island. Its land along with the age-old acacia trees are witness the rich history of the province during the colonial days.

The plaza was used as a as military training and parade grounds and was originally called Plaza de Armas. They changed the name to Plaza Mayor when it was widened and expanded to reach the nearby properties. The name change didn't stop there, because when the Spanish came and developed the land, it was named in honor of the Queen Regent. 

Then when the American colonial period came, it was changed to Plaza Libertad, a proof that they liberated the people from Spanish rule. When all colonizers left the country, its name was changed to Plaza Independencia, a symbol of true freedom and independence.

An obelisk dedicated to the memory of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the first Spanish governor-general of the Philippines, is planted at the very heart of the plaza.

Like many other historical sites in the country, this one was almost forgotten, if not with the realization of the local government. The park used to be a haven for robbers and a dating site, but it was renovated and improved and now it's one of the tourist attractions in the province. It's still a dating site, but a lot secured because of the guards posted and watching over the cleanliness and security of the plaza. When we visited there, there are people picnicking and students just hanging around.

The plaza is conveniently located right beside Fort San Pedro and near the Magellan’s Cross and the Cebu City Port. If you are going to visit the Fort San Pedro, make sure you pass by this plaza.