What to do and see in Iloilo City, Visayas: The Best Nature & Parks

Reviewed By CzarEmmanuel - Manila, Philippines

One of Iloilo City's national historical landmark, this mansion owned by the Lopez clan was built in 1928 and is located in the Jaro district of the city. It may not not be as old as the other ancestral houses in town, but this mansion is definitely one of the most well-preserved. It has a vast lawn in front of a white structure in art deco style. I was quite surprised when I called up its administrator just four hours before our visit to book a guided tour to the house and received a positive response. I thought one had to book days ahead before visiting the place. Well, I guess they didn't have many reservations for that afternoon, and so they immediately accommodated us. The lady who guided us -- Ma'm Lucia -- was very knowledgeable concerning every single detail about the house, as well about the history of the place and of the Lopez family. She guided through every single room in the house, from the main entrance up to the second floor. The place is really well-maintained .... the flooring made of tindalo wood, the narra carvings and cornices on the ceiling, the frescoes on the wall, the Chinese decors, the Italian chandeliers, the stained glass windows, the tiles on the floor and in the rest rooms, etc. She was so accommodating as we asked her information about the photos on display, the gowns once worn by the women of the house, the musical instruments, the soirees that used to be held in the grand sala, the furniture, and so forth. A visit to this place is like travelling back in time, at least to the time of the American era. It gives you a glimpse into the lifestyle of one of the well-off and prominent Ilonggo families -- the Lopez family. Aside from the house itself, the surrounding gardens are also very interesting and offer you great spots for pictorials. By the way, both the gardens and the mansion can be rented for special occasions (like weddings). I really enjoyed our visit to this place! I just wish that they would allow visitors to take pictures of the interior of the mansion.