Another landmark in the city of Cebu is the Magellan’s Cross, just a stone throw away from the Sto. Niño Basilica. Magellan’s Cross is called as such because it is the original wooden cross that Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan planted when he arrived in Cebu. Because of the effects of time, weather and other external factors, it could not be avoided that the wooden cross would be subject to wear and tear. To preserve this historic landmark, the original cross was cast with wooden planks. At present, the cross is housed in a small octagonal shaped structure. It has wide windows that let light shine through.

The ceiling has a narrative painting of that fateful day with Magellan, along with Spanish soldiers, planted the cross on that same spot. This landmark is relevant to the Filipinos because it signified the locals’ conversion to Christianity. Because of the arrival of the Spaniards, the Philippines has become a significant mover in the Christian faith. In fact, the country remains to be the only Catholic nation in Asia.