Vigan was founded in the 16th century by Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo in an area that was originally a settlement of traders from Fujian, China. The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 in recognition of its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, which represents an impressive example of Spanish influence on Philippine culture and architecture.

It is one of the few remaining Spanish colonial cities in the archipelago whose structure has remained almost intact, as well as possessing a unique architecture that fuses native Filipino and Oriental designs with Spanish colonial architecture. With its perfectly cobblestone streets, the city maintains a period atmosphere, transporting visitors back in time and allowing them to experience life in the Spanish colonial era of the Philippines.

The heart of the historic district is Plaza Salcedo, named after Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo. This plaza is a popular place to relax and enjoy the view of the beautiful Vigan City Hall, built in the late 19th century. The square is surrounded by old colonial buildings, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The city is home to numerous museums, churches and other buildings of great historical and architectural value that offer a window into the city's rich history. Among the best known is St. Paul's Cathedral, an impressive church dating from the 17th century. The cathedral's facade is made of brick and features twin towers in the Baroque style. The interior of the building is adorned with beautiful wall paintings and religious sculptures.

Another notable building in the historic center of Vigan is the Syquia Mansion. This house was the residence of Philippine President Elpidio Quirino and his family. The house has remained virtually intact since the 19th century and offers a glimpse into the life of the Filipino elite of the time. Another important building is that of the Vigan Museum, which houses an impressive collection of historical and cultural artifacts of the city.

Aside from the aforementioned, places like Fort San Vicente, Plaza Burgos, the City Hall and the National Museum of Ilocos Sur stand out in Vigan's historic district. Traditional Filipino houses are also a highlight of Vigan's historic district. These buildings are known for their red-tiled roofs and wooden balconies. Many of these buildings have been restored and converted into restaurants, stores and exclusive accommodations.

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