The stunning sepulcro at the Bogo Catholic cemetery is the only one of its kind I have seen anywhere else.

Detail of a capital

The town of Bogo is located near the northern end of Cebu Island and is a major economic hub in this part of the province. While the original church built by the Seculars is no longer standing at the main plaza (the present one was built after the war at an elevated area), there is one surprising find at the cemetery.

The original camposanto (cemetery) is still existing, less than a kilometer from where the original church used to stand. However, there is no longer a trace of the original stone with latticed wood enclosure. Amidst the modern burial mausoleums, niches and plots, there is one Spanish colonial era sepulcher that is still standing. It is made from coral stones and maybe owned by the Balbin family attesting to the tombstone placed to cover the niches.

The sepulcher consists of two levels. The lower part is wider than the upper part and each corner and the mid lateral sections have fluted quadrilateral columns topped with finials.  At the façade, two pairs of round columns border the sides of the niche topped by an equal number of finials. Ornamental floral bas relieves can be found at each side and the façade. At the topmost is a triangular pediment resting on decorative balustrades. At its center is a bas relief of a heart surmounted by a cross with radiating rays.

The manner with which it has been made, its age and the rich details found enhances its standing as one of the oldest and beautifully made sepulchers I have seen in Cebu or anywhere else in the country.

Estan Cabigas is a multiawarded blogger and freelance photographer based in Makati City, the Philippines. A true blue Cebuano, he makes stunning images and meaningful photo stories. He has writtten for CNN Go and his photograph will be published in the May 2010 issue of the National Geographic Magazine.

To know more about him and his photography, visit estancabigas.com.

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