Naga's prominent place in Bicol's history and its rapid growth into a cosmopolitan city that is located amidst a resource-rich metropolitan area, make it a unique place to visit. Nestled at the foot of majestic Mt. Isarog, Naga was, in precolonial times, a native settlement flourishing on the banks of the meandering Bicol River. Its central location made it an ideal site for Spanish colonizers to establish their foothold in the area, naming it as Ciudad de Nueva Caceres, one of the oldest cities established by royal decree. This blend of historical significance and physical characteristics gives Naga City a flavor and feel that is all its own. Naga is a place of faith, progress, learning, and culture. It is known also as the Heart of Bicol, owing to its regional significance, and Pilgrim City, as the home of the biggest Marian celebration in Southeast Asia. National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin dubbed it "One of the Seven Golden Cities of the Sun". For many, Naga is simply "'An Maogmang Lugar" (A Happy Place) - the hub of all that is fun and fulfilling.