By Dionesis Canonigo, Anchor, Brigada News FM Toledo
Nestled in the heart of Cebu’s western coast, the “Joyful City” of Toledo offers more than its rich mining heritage and power-producing past. With the local government championing its transformation into a wellness and heritage hub, Toledo City is now becoming a favorite destination for travelers seeking both adventure and peace of mind.
Formerly known as Pueblo Hinulawan, Toledo has come a long way from its colonial roots. Just a scenic two-hour drive from Cebu City, this growing destination is easily accessible by bus, van, or private car. Domestic flights into Mactan-Cebu International Airport make it an easy jump-off point for both local and foreign visitors alike.
Capilla Sta. Ana: A sanctuary for the soul
One of the city’s rising tourism stars is the Capilla Sta. Ana Museum and Community Center, a European-inspired chapel tucked along Diosdado Macapagal Highway in Barangay Poblacion. More than just a beautiful structure, the capilla offers a deeply meditative and artistic experience that helps visitors slow down and reflect.
Designed to mirror old European chapels, Capilla Sta. Ana is adorned with Renaissance paintings, religious relics, and priceless antiques. It includes rooms for prayer, education, and community gatherings, all curated by owner and native Toledana, Lilian Yared-Overs, and her Canadian husband, Michael Overs.
Visitors are welcomed with warmth and guided through the chapel, where iconic pieces like a replica of Michelangelo’s PietĂ are on display. The museum’s upper floors showcase 18th-century Irish paintings and sacred Peruvian sculptures, offering a spiritual and cultural experience unlike any other in the region.
Beside the chapel lies a 25-meter labyrinth—perfect for walking meditations or a contemplative jog. Many guests use this space to pray the rosary or simply reconnect with nature, making it a haven for mental wellness and inner peace.
Travel for wellness, connection, and community
The impact of travel on mental health is well-documented. A change in environment, combined with time spent in natural and historical settings like Capilla Sta. Ana, can reduce stress, improve mood, and foster mindfulness. Whether you’re a solo traveler on a reflective journey or a family looking for a meaningful weekend trip, Toledo offers peace away from the bustle.
Traveling locally also contributes to sustainable economic growth. In Toledo, small businesses, transport operators, and guides have benefited from the rising number of visitors. Capilla Sta. Ana alone has helped create sustainable jobs for locals—from tour guides and maintenance staff to artisans and vendors selling local goods nearby.
Sustainable tourism, sustainable futures
Under the leadership of Mayor Marjorie Piczon Perales, Toledo’s tourism efforts are increasingly aligned with sustainable practices. Locally led initiatives focus on heritage conservation, waste reduction, and inclusive tourism that respects both people and place.
With the support of public-private partnerships and community involvement, destinations like Capilla Sta. Ana are preserved not only as attractions but as living cultural centers. Toledo’s model of combining mental wellness, local employment, and heritage preservation is a testament to how tourism can uplift without overwhelming.
So whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, spiritual renewal, or a refreshing break from city life, Toledo City offers a joyful journey with purpose. Plan your visit, walk the labyrinth, and discover why this city on Cebu’s western shore is more than its power plants—it’s a powerful experience in itself.
Practical Info:
- How to Get There: Take a bus or van from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Toledo City. Travel time is about 2 hours.
- Capilla Sta. Ana Hours: 10 AM – 12 NN, 1 PM – 4 PM daily.
- Entrance Fees: Php 200 (foreigners), Php 100 (locals), Php 50 (students)
