Museum Visit and Research Report

FORT OF SAN PEDRO

Amper, Arc Gabriel Felix C.

Arnaiz, Julian Miguel
Lagnason, Loreto III P.
Lasula, JC Vince B.
Pido Jairuz Jan J.

BSMT 2-5

November 29, 2024

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 TABLES OF CONTENTS

Title Page …………………………………………………………….……………………. Page 1

Table of Contents …………. ……………………………………………………………... Page 2
Introduction and Background ……………………………………………………………... Page 3
Museum History …………………………………………………………………………... Page 2
Notable Artifacts/Exhibits ………………………………………………………………… Page 3
Significance to Cebu’s Heritage …………………………………………………………... Page 7
Photos and Captions …………………………………………………………………….. Page 10
Conclusions ……………………………………………………………………………… Page 11
References ……………………………………………………………………………….. Page 12

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 MUSEUM HISTORY

History of Fort San Pedro and Its Museum

Fort San Pedro, known as Fuerte de San Pedro in Spanish, is a significant historical
military structure located in Cebu City, Philippines. It is recognized as the oldest triangular
bastion fort in the country, with its current stone structure dating back to 1738. The fort was
initially constructed in 1565 by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi, who
established the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines on Cebu Island. The original fort was
made of wood and designed to protect against local threats, particularly from Muslim raiders in
the region.

Architectural Features

The fort is characterized by its triangular shape, with two sides facing the sea and one
side facing land. It features three bastions named La Concepcion, Ignacio de Loyola, and San
Miguel, each equipped with cannons—most of which remain in place today. The walls of Fort
San Pedro are approximately 20 feet tall and 8 feet thick, making it a formidable defense
structure during its operational years.

Historical Significance

Throughout its history, Fort San Pedro has served various roles:

● Spanish Settlement: It was the nucleus of the first Spanish settlement in the
Philippines and played a crucial role during the early colonial period.
● Revolutionary Stronghold: During the Philippine Revolution at the end of the 19th
century, it was captured by Filipino revolutionaries who used it as a stronghold
against colonial forces.
● Restoration and Preservation: In the mid-20th century, efforts were made to
restore and preserve the fort after plans for its demolition were halted due to public
opposition. Restoration involved using coral stones sourced from nearby coastal
areas.

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The Museum

Today, Fort San Pedro houses a museum that showcases artifacts from the Spanish
colonial period. This museum includes:

● Historical documents
● Paintings and sculptures
● Artifacts related to maritime history, including items recovered from shipwrecks like the
San Diego galleon.

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 NOTABLE ARTIFACTS/EXHIBITS

Notable Artifacts

● Katipunero Artifacts: The fort houses various items from the Katipunan, including
swords, garments, and flags. These artifacts represent the Filipino revolutionaries who
fought against Spanish rule. The Port of San Pedro in Cebu is historically significant as it
played a role in the Katipunan’s resistance against Spanish rule. Katipunero artifacts
connected to the port may include:
1. Weapons and Ammunition: Items like bolos, spears, or improvised firearms that
the Katipuneros used during their struggle for independence.
2. Revolutionary Documents: Correspondence, declarations, or other written
materials that detailed plans or communications among Katipuneros.
3. Clothing and Flags: Uniforms or clothes worn by members, as well as flags or
banners with Katipunan symbols, such as the distinctive K.
4. Personal Items: Items such as talismans or religious objects, which some
Katipuneros carried for protection or morale.
5. Commemorative Plaques and Monuments: Some artifacts may be part of
historical displays near Fort San Pedro, acknowledging the role of local
Katipuneros.Fort San Pedro itself, located near the port, often holds exhibits on
Cebu’s rich history, which could include Katipunan-related memorabilia and
artifacts. The fort’s museum and historical panels might provide more insight into
their activities and historical significance
● Spanish Documents and Sculptures: The museum inside Fort San Pedro displays
preserved Spanish documents and sculptures that provide insights into the historical
context of the fort's construction and its role during the colonial period.
1. Construction Records and Blueprints: These documents often include detailed
plans and records of the fort’s original design and subsequent modifications. They
offer insight into Spanish military architecture and engineering methods used
during the colonial era. Such records highlight the strategic importance of Fort
San Pedro in defending against pirate raids and foreign invaders.

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 2. Colonial Correspondence: Preserved letters and official communications reveal
the interactions between Spanish authorities in Cebu and the central government
in Manila. These documents provide a glimpse into the administrative and
military strategies used by the Spanish to maintain control over their territories
and manage local affairs.
3. Edicts and Orders: Royal decrees or colonial regulations are also significant,
illustrating the laws and orders imposed by Spain on its colonies, such as those
governing trade, taxation, and local governance. These documents are vital for
understanding the socio-political landscape of the time.
4. Religious Texts: Missionary work was integral to Spanish colonization, so
religious documents may detail the spread of Christianity and its role in
reinforcing Spanish control over indigenous populations.
● Historical Paintings: Various paintings depict significant events in Philippine history,
such as the Battle of Mactan and other encounters between local warriors and Spanish
forces. These artworks serve to educate visitors about the conflicts that shaped the nation.
1. The Arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521: Depicting the meeting of Spanish
explorers with Rajah Humabon and Queen Juana.
2. Christianization of Cebu: Illustrating the first baptism of Filipinos and the gifting
of the Santo Niño.
3. Construction of Fort San Pedro: Showing Spanish and local laborers building the
fort.
4. Battle Scenes: Highlighting the fort’s role in repelling Moro pirate attacks.
● Cannon Displays: Fort San Pedro features several cannons that were originally mounted
to defend against attacks from both sea and land. Many of these cannons remain on
display today, showcasing the fort's military significance.

The cannons, some of which were forged in Europe, bear intricate engravings,
including royal insignias and dates of manufacture. They were mounted on rotating bases
to allow for a wider firing range and were essential in protecting Cebu's coastal areas.
The museum also displays cannonballs and discusses the types of gunpowder and loading
techniques used. Informative plaques explain the strategic placement of these artillery
pieces and their historical significance during sieges.

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 ● Vestidor (Warrior Garment): A vestidor, or traditional garment worn by warriors
during the Spanish colonization, is also part of the collection. This garment symbolizes
the attire of local fighters during that era.

The vestidor includes replicas and original pieces of armor such as chainmail,
breastplates, and helmets used by both Spanish soldiers and their Filipino allies. The
museum also showcases weapons like swords (espada), lances, and shields (escudos).
These artifacts reflect the mix of European military attire and indigenous modifications
for tropical climates. Mannequins wearing these garments help visitors visualize how
soldiers would have appeared.

Architectural Features

● Triangular Bastion Design: The fort is notable for its triangular design, which includes
three bastions named La Concepción, Ignacio de Loyola, and San Miguel. This
architectural style was common in military fortifications during the Spanish period.

The triangular layout of Fort San Pedro is inspired by Renaissance-era European

fortifications, designed to maximize defensive capabilities.

Each corner of the fort houses a bastion:

● La Concepción (dedicated to the Immaculate Conception).

● San Ignacio de Loyola (named after the founder of the Jesuits).
● San Miguel (honoring Saint Michael the Archangel).

The bastions were equipped with cannons and lookout posts, enabling guards to
monitor land and sea. The walls, made from coral stone and lime mortar, were designed
to withstand both enemy attacks and harsh weather conditions.

● Cuerpo de Guardia: This building served as the guardhouse and is part of the fort's
structure. Although access may be limited, it is an integral part of understanding the fort's
operational history.

The Cuerpo de Guardia served as the main guardhouse where soldiers stayed
while on duty. This space is now used to display weapons, uniforms, and tools used by
the guards. Visitors can see artifacts such as gunpowder flasks, sabers, and even personal

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 items like tobacco pipes and letters. The space also has exhibits detailing the daily
routines, responsibilities, and hardships faced by the guards.

● Viviende del Teniente: Originally the quarters for the lieutenant in charge of the fort, this
building now serves as a museum space showcasing historical photographs and art related
to Cebu's past.

The Vivienda del Teniente (Lieutenant’s Quarters) was the living space for the
fort’s commanding officer. It is a modestly furnished area reflecting both Spanish colonial
aesthetics and practicality. Items on display include a writing desk with quills, maps, a
small library of Spanish books, a four-poster bed, and household items such as porcelain
dishes and oil lamps. This section of the museum provides insight into the officer's role in
overseeing the fort’s operations, including managing soldiers and organizing defenses.

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 SIGNIFICANCE TO CEBU’S HERITAGE
Significance to Cebu's Heritage: Connection to Cebu's Maritime, Cultural, and Historical
Background
Fort San Pedro holds immense significance to Cebu's heritage, standing as a vivid
representation of the earliest Spanish settlement in the Philippines. Established in 1565 under the
command of Miguel López de Legazpi, this historic fortification symbolizes the beginning of
Spanish colonization in the country. It served as a critical military stronghold designed to protect
Spanish forces and settlers from external threats, including pirate raids and attacks from local
resistance movements during the early stages of colonization. Its strategic triangular design, built
from coral stones and hardwood, reflects the ingenuity of Spanish military architecture,
demonstrating their commitment to securing their newfound territories.
Over the centuries, Fort San Pedro's role extended beyond mere defense, evolving into a
multi-purpose establishment that mirrored the historical changes in Cebu and the country at
large. Initially a bastion of Spanish authority, the fort later became a pivotal site during the
Philippine Revolution when it served as a refuge and stronghold for Filipino revolutionaries
fighting for independence from colonial rule. Its walls, which once housed Spanish soldiers,
became a sanctuary for Filipinos who envisioned a future free from foreign domination. This
transformation imbues the site with a deeper cultural and historical significance, as it
encapsulates both the oppression endured by the Filipinos and their eventual struggle for
self-determination.
Today, Fort San Pedro stands as one of Cebu's most important heritage landmarks,
meticulously preserved as a reminder of the city’s rich and complex history. Its role as a museum
and cultural site allows visitors to explore various artifacts, documents, and displays that narrate
the history of Cebu, from pre-colonial times through the Spanish period and beyond. The fort has
become a tangible link to the past, providing insight into the life, architecture, and challenges of
those who once lived and fought within its walls.
More than just a historical monument, Fort San Pedro represents the resilience and
adaptability of the Filipino people. Its existence is a testament to how history can transform from
being a symbol of foreign conquest to a source of national pride. The fort is now a space for
education, reflection, and cultural celebration, reminding visitors of Cebu's role in shaping

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Philippine history. It stands as a tribute to the enduring spirit of the Cebuanos, who have
reclaimed this site as a cherished part of their identity and heritage.
Fort San Pedro is not merely a relic of the past—it is a living testament to the dynamic
history of Cebu and the Philippines. As one of the oldest and most significant historical sites in
the country, it serves as a constant reminder of the trials, transformations, and triumphs that have
shaped the Filipino nation. Its preservation ensures that future generations can continue to learn
from and draw inspiration from its storied walls, making it a cornerstone of Cebu's cultural and
historical legacy.

Connection to Cebu's Maritime Heritage

Fort San Pedro is deeply intertwined with Cebu's maritime history, serving as a testament
to the island's strategic importance during the Spanish colonial period. Its prime coastal location
was carefully chosen to maximize its role as a defensive stronghold against naval threats and to
secure Spanish control over the region’s waterways. With two of its three walls directly facing
the sea, the fort's triangular design was not merely symbolic but highly practical, providing a
vantage point to monitor and defend against potential maritime incursions. Equipped with an
array of cannons positioned along its seaward walls, the fort served as the first line of defense
against Moro pirate raids, which were a constant menace to Spanish settlements and trade routes
in the Visayas during that era.
This strategic placement also allowed Fort San Pedro to play a significant role in
protecting Spanish galleons, which frequently docked in Cebu's port as part of the
Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade. The fort ensured the safe passage of ships carrying valuable
goods, silver, and provisions, contributing to the flourishing of commerce under Spanish rule. By
securing the waters around Cebu, it became a critical hub in the colonial maritime network,
underscoring the fort's significance not just as a local defensive structure but as an integral part
of Spain's broader colonial strategy in the Pacific.
Furthermore, the fort's maritime role extended beyond defense. It functioned as a symbol
of Spanish naval dominance and authority, showcasing their ability to control key trade routes
and protect their settlements against external threats. The cannons that once lined its walls, now
displayed as artifacts within the fort, serve as a stark reminder of the military and technological
prowess the Spanish employed to maintain their dominance over the seas.

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 Over time, as the Philippines transitioned from Spanish rule to subsequent periods of
American and Japanese occupation, the fort's maritime significance evolved. During World War
II, its location near the coast again proved strategic, as it was used as a defense outpost and a
temporary refuge. Today, while its cannons no longer guard against invaders, Fort San Pedro
remains a powerful symbol of Cebu's maritime heritage. Its preservation ensures that future
generations can appreciate its historical role in shaping the island’s identity and its importance as
a coastal stronghold.
By connecting the sea to the land, Fort San Pedro reflects the integral relationship
between Cebu’s history and its maritime environment. It stands as a lasting reminder of the
challenges and triumphs faced in defending Cebu’s shores, a monument to the enduring
importance of the sea in the island’s history, economy, and culture. Its coastal legacy continues to
inspire pride in the resilience and adaptability of the Cebuanos, whose identity is inextricably
linked to the waters that surround their home.

Cultural and Historical Background

Culturally, Fort San Pedro symbolizes the Spanish colonial influence on Cebu, acting as
the center of military and clerical power in the region. The fort was not only a military
installation but also a site of governance where local leaders interacted with Spanish authorities.
This interaction significantly impacted local customs and practices, leading to the fusion of
indigenous and Spanish cultures.
Historically, Fort San Pedro witnessed significant events that shaped Philippine history. It
was an essential site during the Philippine Revolution, where Filipino revolutionaries sought
independence from Spanish rule. In 1898, as Spain ceded control of the Philippines to the United
States following the Spanish-American War, Fort San Pedro transitioned from a symbol of
colonial power to a site of national pride.
The fort’s transformation over time—from a military fortress to a prison during American
occupation, then an American base, and now a museum—reflects Cebu’s evolving identity and
resilience throughout its tumultuous history. Today, it houses artifacts that narrate this rich
cultural narrative, connecting visitors to Cebu's past through exhibits showcasing historical
documents, photographs, and relics from various periods.

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 Fort San Pedro stands not only as a monument of military architecture but also as a vital
link to understanding Cebu’s maritime legacy and its broader historical context within Philippine
history. It invites visitors to explore how these elements intertwine to create a unique cultural
heritage that continues to resonate today. This comprehensive overview emphasizes Fort San
Pedro’s multifaceted significance by delving deeper into its maritime connections as well as its
cultural and historical importance within Cebu's heritage.

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 CONCLUSION
Fort San Pedro in Cebu City is an enduring symbol of the Philippines’ rich and layered
history, offering a unique window into the country’s colonial past and its journey toward cultural
and national identity. Constructed in 1565 under the leadership of Miguel López de Legazpi, it
served as the earliest bastion of Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines. The fort was
strategically built near the coastline to guard against local uprisings and external invasions,
embodying the Spanish effort to establish and maintain control over the archipelago. Its
triangular structure, made of coral stones and hardwood, stands as a testament to the ingenuity
and resilience of colonial-era architecture.

Over centuries, Fort San Pedro’s role has evolved in response to the needs of the times. It
transitioned from being a military defense post during Spanish colonization to various other uses,
including serving as a prison during the American regime, a hospital during World War II, and
even a zoo at one point. These shifts illustrate the fort’s flexibility and its central role in Cebu’s
social and political landscape. Despite being weathered by time and conflict, the structure
remains remarkably well-preserved, symbolizing the enduring strength of the Cebuanos and their
heritage.

Today, Fort San Pedro is more than just a historical site; it is a cultural beacon that invites
visitors to immerse themselves in the story of Cebu’s past. As a museum and tourist attraction, it
showcases artifacts, documents, and remnants of the colonial era, fostering a deeper
understanding of the region’s history. The fort is not just a reminder of colonial domination but
also a reflection of the resilience and ingenuity of the Filipino people, who have reclaimed such
spaces as symbols of cultural pride and historical education.

Standing in the heart of Cebu City, Fort San Pedro is an irreplaceable landmark that
bridges the past and present. It serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, providing
opportunities for reflection on the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the Filipino identity.
The fort’s preservation underscores the importance of valuing historical landmarks, as they carry
lessons about resilience, adaptation, and the importance of protecting cultural heritage for future
generations.

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 In the broader context, Fort San Pedro encapsulates the transformative journey of Cebu
from a strategic colonial outpost to a thriving modern metropolis. It inspires a profound
appreciation for the courage and determination of the generations who contributed to shaping the
Philippines as we know it today. By visiting and understanding its history, individuals can
connect with the legacy of Cebu and the collective narrative of a nation striving for progress
while honoring its past. Fort San Pedro is not just a relic of history—it is a living testament to the
Filipino spirit.

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