Butuan, Administrative center in Caraga, Philippines.
Butuan is an administrative center in Caraga, Philippines, extending along the Agusan River at 144 meters (472 feet) above sea level. The city forms a natural gateway to northern Mindanao and serves as a regional hub.
The Rajahnate of Butuan maintained trade connections with China starting from the year 1001 and developed into an important maritime center. The city remained a significant hub in Southeast Asian trade for centuries.
The National Museum displays balangay boats and gold artifacts from earlier centuries, documenting the craftsmanship of past inhabitants. Visitors can view these objects today and gain insight into metalworking techniques of that time.
Bancasi Airport connects the city with Manila through multiple daily flights, while jeepneys operate local routes within the urban area. Travelers should note that jeepneys follow fixed routes and asking locals for the right line works best.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered nine wooden boats dating from 320 to 1250, demonstrating advanced shipbuilding techniques. These finds show that complex watercraft were already built here over 1000 years ago.
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