Bacarra

Welcome to Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, a charming town steeped in Spanish-era heritage, rustic vibes, and Ilocano pride. Nestled just a few minutes from Laoag City, this quiet yet iconic municipality is famously known for its “Leaning Tower of the North”, a true symbol of resilience that has weathered centuries of earthquakes and time.

No visit to Bacarra is complete without marveling at its Bacarra Bell Tower, an architectural marvel that leans with elegance. Once towering with a dome, it lost its crown during a strong earthquake in 1931, yet it still stands proud, earning it the nickname “Acrobatic Bell Tower.” It’s a photogenic site, perfect for heritage lovers and IG-worthy snapshots.

Bacarra may be small, but it’s surrounded by natural and cultural treasures:

• Bacarra River and Bacarra Church Ruins are serene, historic escapes
• Pasuquin Salt Pans, just a drive away, showcase traditional salt-making
• Cape Bojeador Lighthouse and Pagudpud beaches are within road trip distance

Bacarra thrives in Ilocano culture, strong, resourceful, and deeply connected to its past. Locals proudly speak Ilocano and Filipino, and they value family, faith, and farming. You’ll find ancestral houses, vibrant community events, and everyday life that moves with patience and grace.

Every September, the town celebrates the Bac-Bacarra Festival, a colorful display of local pride, street dancing, and agricultural thanksgiving. It brings the community together in celebration of their humble roots and resilient spirit.

Bacarra’s music blends Ilocano folk songs and church choir harmonies. Traditional instruments like the kudyapi and upbeat rondalla tunes still echo during cultural shows and religious events. It’s a soundscape of nostalgia and heritage.

• The Leaning Bell Tower
• Historical architecture
• Warm Ilocano hospitality
• Rich culinary traditions
• Serene rural vibes with deep history