BUTUANDER!

Explore the Wonders of Butuan!

Explore some of Butuan's notable destinations, historical landmarks, natural attractions, and places where you can experience the city's beauty and stories.

BALANGAY BOAT REPLICA

A replica of Butuan's ancient boat, celebrating the city's rich maritime heritage. The Balangay is also referred to as the Butuan boat as the name for human small communities by the Spaniards. As a boat balanghai or Spanish barangayanes, is a type of plank boat adjoined by a carved-out plank edged through pins and dowels.

It was first mentioned in the 16th Century in the Chronicles of Pigafetta, and is known as the oldest watercraft found in the Philippines. The oldest known balangay has been carbon-dated to 320 CE.

It was the first wooden watercraft excavated in Southeast Asia and are evidence of early Filipino craftsmanship and their seamanship skills during pre-colonial times.

Location here

BUTUAN NATIONAL MUSUEM

Home to artifacts and archaeological treasures that preserve stories of Butuan’s rich and ancient past. The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) – Butuan is one of the regional museums of the NMP, which is an educational, cultural, and scientific institution mandated to protect, preserve, study, and promote the national patrimony and cultural and natural heritage of the country for the benefit of current and future generations.

The museum initially focused on the archaeological artifacts recovered by the NMP in Butuan City and the material culture of the ethnolinguistic group inhabiting the region. Considering its archaeological importance, in 1980, the Butuan Boat Site Museum was also constructed at Ambangan, Libertad, Butuan City, to house the remains of the ancient boats, Butuan Boat 1, and other artifacts/material culture.

Location Here

BANZA CHURCH RUINS

The first Catholic Church in Mindanao was consecrated by a Jesuit Missionary, Fr. Valerio de Ledesma on September 8, 1597. Burned to the ground by Moro Pirates in 1753, this old structure was rebuilt but fell into disuse due to transfer of the pueblo (town center) to Baug (now Magallanes) in 1865.

Home to artifacts and archaeological treasures that preserve stories of Butuan’s rich and ancient past. Located beside the Agusan River, a huge Banyan Tree locally called "Balete" (𝘍𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢) now wraps the bell tower of this once beautiful stone church built by the Recollect Missionaries.

Location Here

MT. MAYAPAY

Rising over the city, this iconic mountain is a familiar part of Butuan’s landscape and natural scenery. The distinct, flat ‘tabletop’ summit of Mt. Mayapay has served as a landmark for Butuan City for more than a thousand years, dating back to the zenith of the Kingdom of Butuan, one of the earliest states that existed in the Philippines.

Though its height of 675 meters pales in comparison with other Mindanao mountains, its unique position – on a wide plain between the Sumagaya range to the west and Mt. Hilong-Hilong and other Agusan mountains to the east – lend it a prominence and a strategic position from which one can view Agusan River empying into Butuan Bay through the city; and behind them, the mountains.

This difficulty notwithstanding, the hike offers a very rewarding view of Butuan City and the summit is scenic and the winds are refreshing. It is a recommended dayhike for hikers visiting Butuan and Agusan del Norte.

Location Here

GUINGONA PARK

A historic public space at the heart of the city, where everyday life and community gatherings come together. Guingona Park is located at what has been the public square or “plaza” of Butuan for many years. It is home to a large Acacia tree that is more than a century old. On its grounds is the Shrine of the Philippine Flag in Mindanao to commemorate the first formal raising of the Philippine flag in Mindanao on January 17, 1899.

The giant flag stays hoisted there night and day. The Rizal monument was done by the famous Filipino sculpture, Garcia Velarde, in 1935, and this qualifies to be an Important Cultural Property under the Cultural Heritage Act of 2009.

Location Here

MASAO BEACH

A coastal stretch known for its open views and peaceful atmosphere, adding to Butuan’s natural charm. Barangay Masao, formerly known as Mazaua Island is the most historic barangay in Butuan. Before reaching Masao Beach in Butuan, you’ll come across a fascinating replica of a Spanish galleon and a massive monument known as Magellan’s Anchorage.

It serves as the memorial of Ferdinand Magellan. Many Filipinos, especially those in the southern regions, believe it to be the site where Ferdinand Magellan, the renowned Portuguese explorer who led the Spanish expedition, first set foot in 1521.

Location Here

BUOD PROMONTORY ECO PARK

Buod Promontory Eco Park is a historical and cultural landmark in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte. Located near the Agusan River, it is known for its connection to the traditional account of the First Easter Mass in the Philippines in 1521. The park features historical markers and monuments that commemorate Butuan’s role in early Philippine history.

Aside from its historical importance, the park provides a peaceful environment where visitors can learn about Butuan’s heritage, appreciate the natural surroundings, and enjoy sightseeing. It is an important destination that promotes the preservation of Butuan’s history, culture, and natural environment.

Location Here

Butuan City is a place rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its tourist attractions showcase the city’s important role in Philippine history and its connection to nature. Places such as the Balangay Boat Replica, Butuan National Museum, Banza Church Ruins, and Mt. Mayapay offer visitors meaningful and memorable experiences. These destinations also help preserve and promote Butuan’s heritage for future generations. Overall, Butuan is a wonderful destination where visitors can explore, learn, and appreciate the unique stories and beauty of the city.