National Museum Cebu: Visitor Guide

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In the midst of the city’s modern skyline and everyday bustle, the National Museum of the Philippines stands as the guardian of a rich heritage that stretches back centuries. Its exhibitions and collections offer a window into the cultural evolution of Cebu Island and the Philippines as a whole. From prehistoric artifacts to contemporary art, the National Museum in Cebu draws a fascinating arc through the history and artistic development of this region.

Location & opening hours: National Museum of the Philippines Cebu City

The National Museum of the Philippines Cebu City is located right on Quezon Boulevard near Pier 1, Fort San Pedro, and Plaza Independencia.

• Opening hours: The National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is closed on religious holidays.
• Address: 7WR3+PQ6, A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines

About the National Museum of the Philippines Cebu City

The building that houses today’s National Museum was formerly known as the Aduana (Customs) Building and was originally built in 1910 to accommodate the Bureau of Customs (BOC) office at the Port of Cebu City. It was designed by William E. Parsons, who served as Consulting Architect to the Philippine government from 1905 to 1914. Parsons was chosen by Daniel H. Burnham to carry out the plans for the cities of Manila and Baguio. Parsons also drew up his own development plan for Cebu City, and the customs house was the first building erected according to that plan.

Over the years there were a number of disputes over how the building should be used, until it was structurally badly damaged by an earthquake in 2012. The damage was not repaired until 2016, and a path toward a future for the historic building could slowly be laid.

In 2019 the building was declared a National Cultural Treasure. The former customs house was then converted into the National Museum Central Visayas. The museum was inaugurated on July 28, 2023 and opened its doors to the public on August 1, 2023.

What can you see at the National Museum of the Philippines in Cebu?

Discover the captivating history and culture of Cebu at the National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu. With permanent and temporary exhibitions presenting the island’s rich and diverse biodiversity, geology, archaeological treasures, art, and ethnographic and maritime traditions, the museum offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Kinaiyahan – Cebu’s Natural Wonders

This exhibition presents the unique geological, botanical, and zoological heritage of Cebu and the neighboring islands.

Ang Karaang Sugbo ug ang mga Kabiling Bahandi

This exhibition presents various archaeological finds from Cebu, including a golden death mask and a jar, both from Plaza Independencia, as well as a lidded secondary burial urn from San Remigio.

Paglawig – Cultural Movement Across the Seas

This exhibition displays artifacts from shipwrecks. It also presents Cebu’s enduring boat-building and fishing traditions.

Philippine Center New York Core Collection of 1974

This exhibition presents a selection of artworks carefully chosen for the Philippine Center New York to embody Philippine national identity in keeping with the dominant style of the global art scene of the 1970s.

Temporary exhibitions

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the National Museum of the Philippines in Cebu also presents a rotating selection of temporary shows that highlight different aspects of Cebu’s history and culture. Because these exhibitions change regularly, visitors are advised to check the museum’s website or social media for the latest updates.

For younger visitors the museum has its own children’s area, where kids can learn more about Philippine history and culture through fun, interactive activities.

Admission to the National Museum of the Philippines

Admission to the newly opened museum is free. Donations to help maintain the exhibitions are, however, very welcome.

Getting to the National Museum of the Philippines

The museum is easy to reach by taxi from anywhere in the city. The fare should be around 150 PHP. Alternatively, it works well to go to Fort San Pedro first and then walk over to the museum in just a few minutes.

Still have questions about the National Museum in Cebu City? Leave a comment!