At the center of the Mactan Shrine in Cebu where the historical Mactan battle took place in 1521 sits a century-old obelisk that honors Ferdinand Magellan. He was a Portuguese circumnavigator, also known as Fernando de Magallanes in Spanish, who was commissioned by the royalty of Spain to an expedition in this part of the world. They conquered the islands and introduced Christianity. History books state that he died in a tragic battle against the troop of Datu Lapu-lapu, a local chieftain who resisted the conquistadores and to convert to Christianity. The spot where the structure is standing is believed to be where Magelllan got killed.
The obelisk is really beautiful at night especially with golden yellow light. It is the first structure you see upon entering the plaza. Although very old, the words and names inscripted on each face of this landmark are still readable: A Hernando De Magallanes, Siendo Gobernador Don Miguel Creus, 1866 Reinando Ysabel II, and Glorias Espanolas.
While noted as a conqueror who tried to politically dominate the islands -- interestingly in the present day - there are several memorials around the Philippines named after Magellan.
