Igorot Stone Kingdom | Baguio

Information

Landmark: Igorot Stone Kingdom
City: Baguio
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Igorot Stone Kingdom, Baguio, Philippines, Asia

The Igorot Stone Kingdom is a man-made park and cultural site located on a hillside in Baguio City. It is a modern construction designed to showcase the stoneworking heritage of the Igorot people.

Visual Characteristics

The park features massive stone walls, towers, and stairs built using the traditional "dap-ay" (stone-stacking) method without cement in certain sections. The architecture is inspired by the Rice Terraces and ancient Igorot fortresses. The landscape is multi-layered, with tiered pathways and viewing decks that offer vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Long Long Benguet Rd, Baguio, Benguet, Philippines.

Access: Located in the Pinewoods area, approximately 5 kilometers from the city center.

Transport: Accessible via taxis or private vehicles. Jeepneys labeled "Tam-awan" or "Long Long" from the city market area pass nearby.

Entry: Admission requires an entrance fee.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Constructed in 2021 by Pio Velasco, the site serves as a tribute to the builder’s Igorot heritage and the legend of an ancient kingdom. While the structures are modern, they utilize indigenous engineering principles. The park is built on a steep mountain slope, integrating with the natural topography of the Benguet highlands.

Key Highlights & Activities

Tower of Igorot Pride: The central and tallest stone structure in the park.

Fertility Tower: One of several thematic stone towers representing local folklore.

Cultural Displays: Replicas of traditional huts and sculptures depicting indigenous leaders and warriors.

Viewing Decks: Higher levels provide a panoramic view of the Cordillera mountain range.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park features a souvenir shop, snack stalls, and public restrooms. The terrain is very steep and involves climbing many stone steps, which may be challenging for those with physical limitations. 5G cellular coverage is available.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily from 07:00 to 18:00. The best time to visit is in the early morning to avoid the midday sun and crowds. During the rainy season, the stones can be slippery; dry weather is preferred for safety.

Facts & Legends

The park is based on the builder's vision of an ancient Igorot kingdom that once existed in the region. It gained rapid popularity via social media shortly after its opening, becoming one of Baguio’s newest major tourist attractions.