Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
A first-class municipality in the province of Nueva Vizcaya, Solano serves as the commercial and financial center of the province. Rich in history dating back to 1767, it blends Gaddang heritage with a cosmopolitan culture shaped by centuries of diverse settlement.
Quick Facts
A Brief History
Solano's history begins with the Gaddang people who originally inhabited the area known as Bintauan. In 1767, Dominican priest Father Alejandro Vidal established a Spanish mission, formally founding the town under the name Lumabang (from the Gaddang word "lungab" meaning cave).
The town experienced various administrative changes. In 1851, Governor General Antonio Urbiztondo reduced it to a barrio of Bayombong due to insufficient inhabitants. It was not until 1860 that Governor General Ramon Solano y Landeral authorized its separation, granting it full municipal status and its current name.
In 1889, Father Juan Villaverde redesigned the town with a modern grid layout: 14 parallel streets, each 20 meters wide, forming 100 square blocks. This visionary urban plan laid the foundation for Solano's growth into the commercial hub it is today.
Spanish rule ended on September 14, 1898. A brief Revolutionary Government was established three days later under Major Delfin Esquivel, marking Solano's transition into the modern era.
Notable Landmarks
St. Louis Beltran Church
One of the best-preserved Spanish colonial churches in Northern Luzon, dedicated to the town's patron saint.
Shrine of Poong Hesus Nazareno
Known as the "Quiapo of the North," this shrine attracts thousands of devotees annually.
Spanish-Era Bridge
A historic stone bridge in Barangay San Luis, built by Fr. Juan Fernandez Villaverde.
Bangaan Rolling Hills
Scenic natural landscape in Barangay Bangaan offering panoramic views of the countryside.