The municipality was founded in 1593 and formally established as a municipality in 1701 through a royal decree.
The crown jewel of the town is the Paoay Church, also referred to as the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1710. Renowned for its earthquake baroque architecture, the church features massive thick buttresses and coral stone walls that have endured centuries of natural calamities. Its distinctive design incorporates Gothic, Baroque, and Oriental influences, making it a true masterpiece of colonial architecture.
Just nearby lies Paoay Lake, the only lake in the province, a serene body of water that adds to the town’s charm. Historically known as Lago de Nanguyudan, it was once the location of a village that supposedly submerged after an earthquake. The lake and its surrounding area were designated as a national park in 1969.
Overlooking the lake is the Malacañang of the North, a presidential museum that previously served as the official residence of former President Ferdinand Marcos in the north. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into the political history of the region.
For adventure enthusiasts, the La Paz Sand Dunes offer a dramatic desert-like landscape ideal for 4x4 rides and sandboarding. It is also a popular filming location for both local and international movies.
Paoay is more than just a visual feast—it is a town that honors its heritage through festivals, cuisine, and warm hospitality. Visitors can wander its cobblestone streets or indulge in Ilocano dishes at local restaurants. In every nook of the town, Paoay presents a rich experience that blends the past with the present.
