Way before Oslob became popular, thanks to the famous butanding whale watching, the town is already teeming with well-preserved historical structures. One of which is the Oslob church and cuartel located in the town proper.
For more information about traveling to Oslob, check out our travel guide here: Oslob Travel Guide
Historical Background
Oslob Church
Nuestra Señora de la Immaculada Conception, or more popularly known as Oslob church, is considered as one of the oldest in Cebu. It was initially established under Boljoon in 1690 but eventually became independent in 1848 with the Immaculate Conception as its patroness saint.
The actual church traces its roots back to the Spanish colonial era. Built in 1830, this iconic structure showcases a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles, reflecting the town’s religious significance and historical importance.
As with other churches in Central Visayas, it was made from coral stones, which used eggs to attach one from another, as elderly locals would say.
The church was ruined by the fire in 2008. The incident gutted almost the entire interior of the church, including the altar and the rectory. The church’s patroness saint Immaculate Conception, as well as the other effigies, were not affected as it was encased in a glass cover.
Cuartel Ruins
The Cuartel Ruins, located between two of the oldest streets in Oslob, Calle Aeternidad and Calle Aragones, tell a different tale. This well-preserved structure was built in 1860 but remained unfinished at the end of the Spanish occupation in 1898.
The cuartel is originally intended to be home/barracks for the Spanish soldiers, more popularly known locally as guardia civil, who were guarding the shores of Oslob during the colonial era. This unfinished structure serves as a reminder of Oslob’s tumultuous past and the changes brought about by history.
Near the bay area is the statue of Father Julian Bermejo, also known by Cebuanos as El Parroco Capitan or El Padre Capitan. He was the one who spearheaded the building of the defense system against moro invaders, which included creating a chain of watchtowers along the bays of several towns in Southern Cebu, starting from Santander all the way to Carcar.
Architecture and Features
Oslob Church
The Oslob Church is a striking structure with a coral stone facade that exudes grandeur and elegance. The intricate carvings adorning the church’s exterior showcase the craftsmanship of the past, while the majestic bell tower stands tall as a symbol of faith and tradition.
Inside, visitors are greeted with ornate altars, religious artifacts, and a serene atmosphere that encourages contemplation and reflection. The church’s architecture reflects a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles, adding to its historical significance and architectural beauty.
Cuartel Ruins
In contrast to the church, the Cuartel Ruins present a different yet equally intriguing sight. These ruins, made of coral stones, were intended to be a barracks for Spanish soldiers in Oslob during the 1800s.
However, the construction was left unfinished when the Americans arrived in 1899. The skeletal remains of this structure offer a unique perspective on Oslob’s history, sparking curiosity and imagination among visitors. Despite its incomplete state, the Cuartel Ruins stand as a testament to the town’s past struggles and serve as a reminder of bygone era.
Book your private transportation from Cebu City to Oslob here: Private Transfers between Cebu City and Oslob via Klook
Cultural Significance
Both Oslob Church and Cuartel Ruins hold immense cultural significance for the local community and tourists alike. They serve as living monuments to Oslob’s past, preserving stories of faith, resilience, and heritage that continue to resonate through generations.
These landmarks not only symbolize the town’s historical roots but also serve as focal points for cultural events, religious celebrations, and community gatherings that enrich Oslob’s vibrant tapestry of traditions.
How to go to Oslob Church and Cuartel from Cebu City?
Visitors to Oslob are treated to a unique blend of history and spirituality when exploring these iconic sites. Travelers can join guided tours, attend mass at the church, or simply soak in the ambiance of these historical sites.
To travel from Cebu City to Oslob Church, you have several transportation options available:
By Bus
- Head to the Cebu South Bus Terminal located beside E-Mall in Cebu City.
- Take a bus bound for Oslob and inform the conductor that you need to be dropped off at the town proper of Oslob.
- Once in Oslob, you can then take a habal-habal (motorcycle) to reach Oslob Baywalk where the church is located.
Read more: How to get to Oslob from Dumaguete City
By own car
- If you prefer driving, you can use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps and set Cuartel Ruins in Oslob as your destination.
- The drive from Cebu City to Oslob is approximately 120km and offers plenty of parking spaces near the Baywalk area where the church and Cuartel Ruins are situated.
For convenient transfers between Cebu City and Oslob, you can choose any of these transportation options:
- Shared City Transfers between Oslob and Cebu City via Klook
- Private Transfers between Cebu City and Oslob via Klook
- Private Transfers between Cebu City and Oslob via Bookaway
How to book your tour to Oslob Church and Cuartel?
You can also consider booking a tour package that includes visits to Oslob Church and Cuartel Ruins. Tour operators like Laag Travel and Tours offer day tours that cover these historical sites along with other attractions like whale shark watching, Sumilon Island, and Tumalog Falls.
If you prefer to go to Oslob on your own, your best option is to contact a habal-habal driver who can take you around Oslob. You should be able to find them around town or you can contact to contact Kuya Jeff who is a tourist guide in Oslob. He has a habal-habal and he can take you around Oslob town. His contact number is 0998-559-7198 or 0923-530-6331.
Where to Stay Near Oslob Church and Cuartel?
For hotels/resorts in Oslob town proper, please visit our other blog article: Cheap accommodations in Oslob.
Read more:
- If you are planning to visit other places near Oslob, please check out my suggested itinerary of Oslob-Bais-Apo Island in 6 days.
- For more information about Oslob, check out our travel guide here: Oslob Travel Guide
- Other tourist attractions in Oslob:
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