The Cathedral Museum of Cebu, also known as the Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu, is a historic ecclesiastical museum that highlights the history and culture of regional Catholicism through artifacts from the colonial era.
Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century rectory, which was originally the parish convent of the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, the museum primarily exhibits Catholic religious artifacts and regional church architecture, with most items dating back to the Spanish colonial period.
Situated in the historic Parian District, the original structure itself is considered a heritage artifact, a fine example of the balay nga bato architecture prevalent during colonial times.
Officially reopened as a museum in 2006 after refurbishment, the museum’s exhibits are organized in the building’s former rooms, offering a look into the history of the Catholic Church in Cebu.
Key galleries consist of:
- Chapel of Relics, which contains relics of saints and pre-Vatican II altars, forming part of the Carmen collection of wooden altar panels encased in silver;
- Historical Galleries, showcasing photographs and illustrations of Catholicism’s growth in Cebu;
- Saints and Religious Icons, a collection of statues and images of saints from various parishes;
- Liturgical Collection, featuring chalices, vestments, books, and other items used during Mass and sacramental practices;
- and the Priestly Life Exhibit, which reconstructs a priest’s bedroom and belongings to illustrate their historical lifestyle.
A portion of the museum is dedicated to regional Church architecture, and a garden area displaying historic church bells and other artifacts, such as a car used by Pope John Paul II during his visit to the Philippines.
In addition, digital tours are available through programs like Panaw sa Pagtuo, enhancing the visitor experience.