Bantay Bell Tower

Bantay Watchtower is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Bantay Bell Tower used to be the belfry of St. Augustine Parish Church (one of the oldest in Ilocos region established in 1590) and served as watchtower at the same time - against invading pirates - during the Spanish era, hence the term bantay. The belfry itself was built in 1591-1592. It is where the name of the Municipality of Bantay Ilocos Sur was derived. Bantay Tower is located on top of a hill some meters from the church, adjacent to Bantay Municipal compound.