April 6, 2012. We woke up at around 5:00 in the morning and geared up for the second leg of our Ilocos Tour. We left Arzaga's house at 5:45 and headed to Laoag McDonalds for breakfast. After half an hour or so, we began our journey to Burgos, Ilocos Norte.
Our first destination was the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, commonly called Burgos Lighthouse. We reached the place at around 7:30 in the morning. Many people were there at that time since it was Holy Week. We got off the van and walked up to the area.
At first glance, Cape Bojeador looked abandoned and forlorn. But when you get nearer, a beautiful Spanish colonial structure unfolds. The whole building is made up of red bricks embellished with iron grills and woodcarvings.
It has three levels: the lowest contains the courtyard and service buildings; the second which is about three meters above the courtyard holds the main pavilion; the octagonal-shaped tower, which constitutes the highest level, is located at the rear, five meters above the pavilion. Although the lighthouse is in a dilapidated condition, it still remains beautiful.
Adding splendor to this lighthouse is its location. Cape Bojeador stands on top of the Vigia de Nagparitan Hill overlooking the South China Sea. The view from the veranda is just breathtaking. On one end, you can see the fantastic view of the blue ocean; on the other, the greenery view of the hills. The soft gust of the wind gives a relaxing and refreshing feeling. The place is very cinematic, such a kind that would be perfect for a romantic film.
What's more fascinating about this lighthouse is that after 100 years, it is still functioning and serving its purpose. It was initially designed and constructed by Magin Pers and Pers in 1887 and was subsequently reconfigured and finished by Guillermo Brockman. It was first lit on March 30, 1892 to guide the seafaring Spanish Galleons. In 1990, the tower was damaged by a strong earthquake. The original lighting apparatus was replaced by a solar powered electric lamp.
It has three levels: the lowest contains the courtyard and service buildings; the second which is about three meters above the courtyard holds the main pavilion; the octagonal-shaped tower, which constitutes the highest level, is located at the rear, five meters above the pavilion. Although the lighthouse is in a dilapidated condition, it still remains beautiful.
Adding splendor to this lighthouse is its location. Cape Bojeador stands on top of the Vigia de Nagparitan Hill overlooking the South China Sea. The view from the veranda is just breathtaking. On one end, you can see the fantastic view of the blue ocean; on the other, the greenery view of the hills. The soft gust of the wind gives a relaxing and refreshing feeling. The place is very cinematic, such a kind that would be perfect for a romantic film.
