30 Facts About Baguio City: A Gem in the Northern Philippines

Nestled in the Cordillera Mountains, Baguio City, also known as the "City of Pines," is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines. Its cool climate, scenic views, rich culture, and colorful festivals attract visitors from all over the world. In this article, we will explore 30 fascinating facts about Baguio City that showcase the unique charm and beauty of this beloved city.

30 Facts About Baguio City: A Gem in the Northern Philippines

• Baguio City was founded by the Americans in 1900 as a hill station during their occupation of the Philippines.
• The city is situated at an elevation of 1,540 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest cities in the country.
• Baguio City is known for its cool climate, with temperatures averaging between 15-23°C.
• The city's name comes from the Ibaloi word "bag-iw," which means "moss."
• Baguio City is home to the famous Burnham Park, which was designed by American architect and urban planner, Daniel Burnham.
• The city is also known for its strawberry farms, which produce some of the sweetest strawberries in the country.
• Baguio City is a hub for traditional handicrafts, such as woodcarving, weaving, and embroidery.
• The Tam-Awan Village showcases the traditional houses of the Cordillera people and is a popular cultural attraction.
• Baguio City is the site of the Baguio Cathedral, a beautiful Neo-Gothic church that dates back to the 1920s.
• The city is also home to the Philippine Military Academy, which trains the country's future military leaders.
• The Baguio City Market is a bustling center of commerce that offers a wide variety of fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
• The city is famous for its colorful festivals, such as the Panagbenga Festival, which celebrates the blooming of the flowers in the city.
• Baguio City is home to the Baguio Country Club, a prestigious golf and leisure resort that has hosted many international events.
• The city is a popular destination for adventure tourism, with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and white water rafting.
• Baguio City is known for its distinctive cuisine, which includes dishes such as pinikpikan and kini-ing.
• The city is also famous for its peanut brittle, which is made from locally sourced peanuts and is a popular pasalubong (souvenir).
• The Laperal White House is a haunted mansion in Baguio City that is rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of its former owners.
• The Baguio City Public Market is the largest public market in the Cordillera Region and offers a wide variety of local products and delicacies.
• The Baguio City Museum showcases the city's rich history and culture, with exhibits on the Ibaloi people, the American colonial period, and more.
• The city is also known for its colorful street art, which can be found in various locations throughout the city.
• The Mines View Park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for photography.
• Baguio City is home to several universities, including the University of the Philippines Baguio and Saint Louis University.
• The city is also a popular destination for medical tourism, with many top-notch hospitals and clinics.
• The BenCab Museum showcases the works of National Artist Benedicto Cabrera and is a must visit attraction for art enthusiasts.
• Baguio City is the gateway to the Cordillera Region, which is home to various indigenous communities and breathtaking landscapes.
• The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs catering to locals and tourists alike.
• The Baguio Night Market offers a wide variety of food, clothing, and souvenirs at affordable prices.
• Baguio City is a prime location for eco-tourism, with numerous parks and nature reserves such as Mount Pulag National Park and the Balatoc Mines.
• The city is home to various architectural landmarks, including the Igorot Garden, the Baguio City Hall, and the Diplomat Hotel.
• Baguio City is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population that includes Ibaloi, Kankanaey, Ifugao, and other indigenous communities, as well as migrants from other parts of the Philippines and abroad.

Conclusion

Baguio City is truly a gem in the Northern Philippines, with its rich culture, scenic views, and colorful festivals. From its cool climate and strawberry farms to its handicrafts and haunted mansions, Baguio City has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, this city of pines is sure to leave a lasting impression.