Fort Almonte’s Rich History in Print

via PIA, 29 February 2024: The University of the Philippines School of Archaeology, in collaboration with local and national bodies, has launched a book titled “The Archeology and History of Fort Almonte” based on recent excavations at the site in Bacolod town, Lanao del Norte. The book, aimed at supporting Fort Almonte’s classification as a National Cultural Treasure, details the discovery of over 1,200 artifacts from the 19th-century fort and outlines plans for its preservation and transformation into a tourist destination, emphasizing the site’s immense heritage value.

Based on the findings during their excavation and exploration of Fort Almonte in Bacolod town in August 2023, the project team from the University of the Philippines (UP) School of Archaeology, in partnership with the provincial government of Lanao del Norte, the municipality of Bacolod, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, launched the book “The Archeology and History of Fort Almonte,” showcasing the rich historical significance of the iconic site.

The project team from the UP School of Archaeology prepared and published a book featuring the results and findings of their exploration and excavation of the fort in August 2023. This is a vital requirement for the classification of Fort Almonte as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

Fort Almonte was established in 1891 and served as a defensive stronghold against raiders protecting Western Mindanao’s coastline territory. It was named after Spanish Admiral Pedro de Almonte Verastegui, who led colonization campaigns with Sebastián Hurtado de Corcuera in Mindanao and Jolo in 1639. It stands as a testament to the province’s rich history.

Source: PIA – New archeology book features Fort Almonte’s heritage in Bacolod town