Mactan Shrine is a park located in Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. Lapu-Lapu is named after a hero who defended the said place from Spanish conquerors and the Portuguese explorer Magellan. In the Battle of Mactan on 1521 Datu (Chief) Lapu-Lapu and his men had killed Magellan.
A statue of Lapu-lapu is built in Mactan Shrine as an honor for his greatness. Today, the park serves as a good place for people to hang-out during weekends. Visiting the park is one of the easiest ways to unwind from the busy pace of life in Cebu City.
The Entrance
Mactan Shrine, also known as Lapu-lapu Shrine, actually has no entrance free. You only have to think about your fare or your budget for gasoline. However, there’s a donation box at the entrance. It’s up to you if you would like to donate for the maintenance of the park. But for me, it’s better if we will donate to help keep the place well-maintained. Even spare change and coins will do.
What You Can See Inside
Inside the park are beautiful landscapes of trees and other plants. They also built wooden statues and a wooden shed.
It’s also good to visit the place if you want to breathe fresh air because the park is located on the coast of Mactan where the battle Lapu-Lapu and Magellan has occurred. There are also mangroves which make the view more beautiful.
The Statue of Lapu-Lapu
The statue is made of bronze and it is where most of the tourists take souvenir photos. It’s quite hard to get a good shot of the statue since a lot of people want to take photos with Lapu-lapu. Luckily, I got my chance to take these photos:
The Monument of Magellan
Just a few feet away from the statue of Lapu-lapu is the Monument of Magellan which was built by the Spaniards on 1866.
Want Some Souvenirs?
Souvenir shops are also available inside Lapu-lapu shrine. They sell different items like decorations made from shells, bags, guitars, and more.
How to Get There
From Highway Mandaue, look for jeepneys that have “Punta Engaño” sign boards. Then, just ask the driver to drop you at Lapu-Lapu shrine.