San Carlos City Negros Occidental Cathedral, also known as the San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral, is a historic Catholic church located in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo, an Italian cardinal who was instrumental in the Catholic Counter-Reformation.

The construction of the cathedral began in 1830 under the direction of the Augustinian Recollects, who were the first missionaries to establish a parish in the area. The church was built using coral stones and hardwood, and it underwent several renovations and expansions over the years.

During the Philippine Revolution of 1896, the cathedral was used as a refuge by Filipino revolutionaries. In 1905, it was designated as a cathedral by the Holy See, and it became the seat of the Diocese of San Carlos in 1962.

The cathedral features a unique mix of architectural styles, including Baroque and Neo-Gothic elements. Its interior is decorated with intricate carvings, murals, and stained glass windows, and it houses several notable artworks, including a painting of the Last Supper by Italian artist Carlo Saraceni.

Today, the San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is recognized as a National Cultural Treasure by the Philippine government and has been declared a historical landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

The San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral is one of the oldest and most significant religious structures in Negros Occidental. Its construction was led by the Augustinian Recollects, who were among the first religious orders to arrive in the province. The church served as the center of religious life for the local community, and it played a key role in the spread of Catholicism throughout the region.

Over the years, the cathedral has undergone several changes and expansions. In 1942, during World War II, the cathedral was heavily damaged by Japanese bombings. It was later restored and renovated, and several additions were made, including the construction of a new bell tower.

The cathedral's architecture is a unique blend of styles, with influences from both the Spanish colonial period and the modern era. The church's façade features ornate carvings and sculptures, while its interior is adorned with intricate murals and stained glass windows. Its high ceilings and spacious interior create an awe-inspiring atmosphere, making it a popular spot for religious events and ceremonies.

One of the cathedral's most notable features is its grand pipe organ, which was installed in 1934. The instrument is one of the largest and most intricate pipe organs in the country, and it has been played by several renowned musicians over the years.

The San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral continues to be a significant cultural and historical landmark in Negros Occidental. It is a testament to the province's rich history and cultural heritage, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of Catholicism in the region.

The San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral is not only a religious and cultural landmark, but it is also an important site for historical events. During the Philippine Revolution against Spain, the cathedral served as a refuge and headquarters for the revolutionary forces in the area. In 1898, after the Spanish surrender, the revolutionary forces held a thanksgiving mass in the cathedral to celebrate their victory.

In 1905, the San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral was elevated to a cathedral by the Holy See, becoming one of the few cathedrals in the Visayas region. The cathedral became the seat of the newly created Diocese of San Carlos in 1962, which covers the cities of San Carlos, Escalante, and Sagay, as well as the towns of Don Salvador Benedicto, Calatrava, Toboso, and Salvador Benedicto.

The cathedral is also known for its annual fiesta in honor of its patron saint, St. Charles Borromeo. The fiesta is held every November 4 and is celebrated with a procession, novena masses, and other religious activities.

Aside from its historical and cultural significance, the San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral is also an important center for community activities. The cathedral's courtyard serves as a venue for concerts, plays, and other cultural events, while its function hall is often used for weddings, receptions, and other social gatherings.

Overall, the San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral is a remarkable testament to the province's rich history and cultural heritage. Its enduring influence on the local community makes it a symbol of unity and faith, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who visit.