Batan

Batan typically refers to Batan Island, the northernmost island of the Batanes Province in the Philippines. The island is part of the Batanes archipelago, which also includes Sabtang and Itbayat. Basco, the provincial capital, sits on the southern coast of Batan Island, serving as the main administrative and economic center for the area.

People and culture: The island is inhabited by the Ivatan, an indigenous group with a distinct language and cultural practices. The Ivatan are known for traditional stone houses with thatched roofs, built to withstand the region’s windy, cool climate and frequent rain. Ivatan culture has historically centered on farming, fishing, and seafaring, with social and religious life shaped by a maritime environment and local customs.

Geography and economy: Batan lies at the northern tip of the Philippines, featuring a rugged landscape of rolling hills, limestone outcrops, and coastal cliffs. The economy has traditionally depended on agriculture and fishing, while tourism has grown as visitors come to see Basco Lighthouse, Ivatan architecture, and other cultural and natural sites. Access to the island is via flights or ferries connecting to Basco and nearby municipalities.

Other uses: The name Batán (often written with an accent) is a Spanish-language toponym used in various countries for towns or districts and may appear on historical maps. The unaccented form Batan also appears as a surname in some regions and is used in other geographic names across different languages.