The Basilica del Santo Nino is one of the most cherished cultural landmarks in Cebu. The Basilica del Santo Nino houses the image of the Santo Niño, a sculpture depicting the Holy Child Jesus, regarded as the oldest religious relic in the Philippines. This was the image that Magellan gave to Queen Juana as a gift during the baptism of King Humabon and his wife Queen Juana on April 14, 1521.
Facade of the Basilica del Santo Nino in Downtown Cebu City
The natives of Cebu were formally Christianized by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and Father Andres de Urdaneta on April 27, 1565. However, as they found the natives hostile, the village was set on fire. Later on, in a burnt-out house, a soldier named Juan Camus found the statue untouched. This was proclaimed a miracle. Since then, the miraculous image has been venerated by the Cebuanos and became the patron of Cebu. Built on the same site where the image was found, the architecture of the Basilica del Santo Nino portrays a blending of Muslim, Romanesque and neo-classical architectural features.
At present, the original Santo Niño adorned with gold and precious stones is enshrined in glass located on the left side of the Basilica altar for public veneration. In 1965, during the fourth centenary of the Christianization of the Philippines, Pope Paul VI elevated the church to the rank of minor basilica. To this day, the Basilica remains under the care of the Order of St. Augustine.
Central Aisle of the Basilica del Santo Nino
Landscaped Garden at the inner courtyard of the Basilica del Santo Nino
Pilgrim Center of the Basilica del Santo Nino built to accommodate the growing number of devotees who come to hear mass in the basilica.
The Basilica del Santo Nino Cebu is located along Osmena Boulevard in downtown Cebu City directly across the Cebu City Hall and within walking distance from Fort San Pedro. The basilica is accessible by riding “Colon” jeepneys plying the city proper area. Asking for directions is very easy since most locals are familiar where the Basilica del Santo Nino is located.
