San Sebastian Cathedral | Bacolod

San Sebastian Cathedral is a late 19th-century Baroque-style church located in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bacolod and is one of the city's most significant historical and religious landmarks.

Visual Characteristics

The cathedral features a facade made of coral stones from Guimaras and lime from Silay. It is characterized by its two prominent bell towers and a central pediment. The interior is spacious and airy, featuring polished wooden altars, intricate chandeliers, and classic stained-glass windows. The flooring consists of traditional Machuca tiles, common in colonial-era Philippine churches.

Location & Access Logistics

The cathedral is located at Rizal Street, Bacolod City, fronting the Public Plaza.

Access: Situated at the heart of the downtown area.

Transport: Easily accessible via any "Downtown" or "Libertad" bound jeepney, as well as taxis and tricycles.

Operating Hours: Daily 06:00–19:00 (Sundays 05:00–20:30).

Contact: +63 34 433 0240.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction began in 1876 under the direction of Fr. Mauricio Ferrero, an Augustinian Recollect priest. It was inaugurated in 1882. The structure was built using forced labor, a common practice during the Spanish colonial period. In 1933, it was elevated to the status of a cathedral. The use of coral stone and local lime reflects the geological materials available in the Western Visayas region during the 19th century.

Key Highlights & Activities

Architectural Photography: The coral stone facade and the symmetry of the twin bell towers are popular subjects for photographers.

Religious Services: Regular Roman Catholic masses are held daily in English and Hiligaynon.

The Palacio Episcopal: The adjacent Bishop's Palace, which is also a significant heritage structure.

Bacolod Public Plaza: Located directly across the street, featuring a gazebo where the names of famous classical composers are inscribed.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: Includes a parish office, a small souvenir area for religious items, and restrooms nearby.

Connectivity: 4G and 5G signals are very strong due to its central urban location.

Accessibility: The main entrance features a small ramp for wheelchair access, and the interior floor is level.

Best Time to Visit

Late afternoon is ideal for viewing the exterior, as the setting sun highlights the texture of the coral stone. Visiting during the MassKara Festival in October is recommended for those who wish to see the cathedral as a central point for city-wide celebrations.

Facts & Legends

A historical fact is that the cathedral's bells were once among the largest in the country, cast specifically to be heard across the growing sugar settlements of Negros. Locally, it is respected as a sanctuary that remained largely unscathed during the various conflicts that affected Bacolod in the 20th century.

Nearby Landmarks

Bacolod Public Plaza – Directly opposite

Bacolod City Hall – 0.5km South

Capitol Park and Lagoon – 1.2km North

The Ruins – 8.0km North