Ilocos Sur is a coastal province in the Ilocos Region (Region I) in Northern Luzon, Philippines. It covers about 3,467.89 square kilometers and is composed of 2 component cities, 32 municipalities, and 768 barangays. The capital of the province is Vigan City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The name 'Ilocos' comes from i-looc, meaning 'from the cove' or 'bay.' Today, Ilocos Sur is famous for its Calle Crisologo in Vigan, historic churches such as Sta. Maria Church, local delicacies like Vigan longganisa and empanada, and its rich Ilocano heritage and traditions.

History

Ilocos Sur was established as a province in 1818, when the old province of Ilocos was divided into Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur to make governance more manageable due to the growing population. The province became a center of Spanish colonization in Northern Luzon, with Vigan serving as an important political, religious, and cultural hub. During the Spanish period, Ilocos Sur played a significant role in the spread of Christianity and Hispanic culture, which is still evident in its architecture and traditions today. It was also home to many Filipino heroes, including Diego Silang and Gabriela Silang, who led revolts against Spanish colonial rule in the 18th century. In the American and Japanese periods, the province remained a site of important events in Philippine history. Today, Ilocos Sur is celebrated for its cultural heritage, with Vigan City recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved Spanish colonial town.