The Bell Tower

The Bell Tower of Dumaguete City was built in 1811 to warn the residents of Dumaguete of the arrival of marauding pirates. The Visayas islands were a favorite target of Moro pirates from Jolo who were wont to sack and pillage and take captive women and children to be sold to slavery and kept in servitude with little or no hope of rescue. So feared were these incursions that lookouts were kept to scan the distant horizon for signs of the swift vintas of these raiders. The Bell would then be struck to warn the womenfolk and children to flee to safety while valiant defenders sought to impede the inroad of these pirates into the city.

Nowadays, the Bell Tower stand mute and silent, a reminder to whoever beholds it of more savage times while close by the pious light their votive candles to help carry their prayers and intentions to the heavens.The Cathedral of Dumaguete sits close by adding comfort to all who would seeks its sanctuary and protection.