Boracay history in photos

Ages ago, Boracay was a stopover for Chinese traders on their way to Mindanao. Physical evidence of this fact and other artifacts from the island’s history are on display at the SeaWind Resort’s Roberto and Gloria Tirol Heritage Center, the only museum in Boracay.

“Aside from maintaining one of the best resorts in the island paradise of Boracay, we at SeaWind decided to contribute to the area’s cultural heritage by founding the island’s first and only museum,” said SeaWind president Federico Jarantilla.

When Chinese traders landed on the island in pre-Spanish times, they met the friendly natives and decided to make the island a stopover on the way to trading posts in Mindanao. Then, Boracay’s beautiful beaches were still developing, on the beachfront were mangroves instead of white sand.

The most valuable items in the museum are several small jars from the Ming Dynasty. There are also some pieces from the Sung Dynasty, and unglazed terracotta pottery dating back to 600 AD.

Also in the museum are historic pictures and memorabilia of earlier generations of the Tirol family, the owners of SeaWind. In addition, an area of the museum displays Aklan products such as piña materials for barongs, placemats, and dresses.

After relaxing in SeaWind’s cozy rooms and feasting on their delicious delicacies, take a trip down history lane in SeaWind’s museum. For inquiries, email: seawind@pacific.net.ph.