CHURCH OF BANTAY

It was built in 1590, then renovated in 1950 after an earthquake. It is famous for its architecture mixing neo-Gothic and Romanesque styles. Its bell tower or belfry, located on a hillock, was used as an observatory during the war(bantay means "to keep"). You can climb up (94 steps) to enjoy a beautiful view of Vigan and the South China Sea in the distance. There are five bells of different sizes; each one was rung during various events: mass, wedding, baptism, burial or warning of approaching enemies.