Museo Sugbo

Overview

Museo Sugbo is the provincial museum of Cebu, housed in a former provincial jail (carcel) built in 1871. The museum chronicles Cebu's history from its pre-colonial roots through Spanish colonization, American occupation, Japanese invasion, and into the modern era through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.

Highlights

• Historic Building: The former prison's thick coral-stone walls and iron-barred windows create an atmospheric museum setting.
• Maritime Gallery: Exhibits on Cebu's maritime heritage include ancient balangay boat artifacts and trade pottery.
• War Relics: A dedicated section covers World War II in Cebu with photographs, weapons, and personal accounts.

History

The building served as Cebu's provincial jail from 1871 until 2004, when inmates were transferred to a new facility. After extensive restoration, it reopened as Museo Sugbo in 2008. The name 'Sugbo' is the ancient Cebuano name for the region, predating Spanish colonization.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Admission is very affordable — one of the best value cultural experiences in Cebu.
• Tip 2: The old prison cells have been cleverly converted into themed exhibition rooms — don't miss the underground cell area.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.