The Ruins, Bacolod

Table of Contents:

• About
• The Architecture
• How to Get Here
• Entrance Fee and Opening Hours
• Things to Do at The Ruins
• The Ruins Photos
• Related Posts

About The Ruins

The Ruins is located in Talisay City, and it was the largest residential mansion built then. This mansion belongs to sugar baron Don Mariano “Anoy” Ledesma Lacson (1865-1948). Built after the death of his wife Maria Braga (1911), and served as the residence of their unmarried children. But, in the early part of World War II, USAFEE and then guerrilla fighters built this mansion to prevent the Japanese forces from making this structure their headquarters. It was burning for three days, leaving no traces of its glorious past, but still, the effort of the workers paid off because its gorgeous ruins are still standing and part of our today.

Negros Occidental - Tourist Spots, Travel Guide, and Hotels

Table of Contents:

• About
• The Ruins, Talisay
• Balay Negrense
• Cinco de Noviembre
• San Diego Church
• Negros Capitol
• Bacolod Cathedral
• Negros Museum

About Negros Occidental

Negros Occidental, known as the “Sugar Bowl of the Philippines,” is a province rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its ancestral houses, heritage sites, and vibrant festivals to its breathtaking mountains, waterfalls, and pristine beaches, the province offers a unique blend of experiences that showcase both tradition and modern charm. Below are the top tourist destinations in Negros:

San Diego Church, Silay

The San Diego Pro-Cathedral, formerly known as San Diego Parish Church or St. Didacus Parish Church, was declared a pro-cathedral in 1994. It is the only church in Silay City that features a dome, which is like St. Peter's in Vatican City. It was established in 1776 using bamboo, cogon grass, and nipa palm. Then it was in 1841 when this parish was constructed using stone and wood, led by Fr. Eusebio Locsin. A grander structure was made in 1925 and replaced the old church. A wealthy sugar baron, Don Jose R. Ledesma from Silay, donated some of the funds for building the new structure. Lucio Bernasconi, an Italian architect, was chosen to design the new structure, wherein he took inspiration from Italy.

Silay City - Tourist Spots and Attractions

1. Balay Negrense

Balay Negrense is one of the century-old houses along Cinco de Noviembre Street, Silay City. This street is remarkable because of the historical value that transpires to the people. Balay Negrense is a Hiligaynon phrase which means: Balay or a house and Negrense refers to the people living in the province of Negros. It is a century-old house in Silay City owned by Victor Fernandez Gaston, the eldest son of a prominent sugar baron, Yves Leopold Germain Gaston, and Prudencia Fernandez. It was built between 1897 to 1901, then abandoned in the mid-1970s, repaired by the government, and was inaugurated on October 6, 1990.

Negros Museum

Table of Contents:

• About Negros Museum
• History
• Museum Opening Hours
• Entrance Fee
• Guided Tours
• How to Get Here
• Final Thoughts

About Negros Museum

The Negros Museum in Bacolod City is more than just a gallery—it is a cultural treasure that tells the story of Negros Island’s vibrant history, heritage, and artistry. Housed in a repurposed provincial capitol building, the museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and contemporary artworks that highlight the island’s rich sugar industry past, indigenous culture, and evolving creativity. A visit here offers a deeper understanding of Negros’ identity beyond its famous food and festivals.

Cinco de Noviembre (Silay City Travel Guide)

Cinco de Noviembre served as the drugstore and a hideout where Negrense Revolutionaries secretly helped plan the revolution against the Spanish Colonial Forces on November 5, 1898. Today, it is a small landmark in Silay City, but before, it played a huge part during the revolution. This is the perfect location where Negros Republic was created.

Balay Negrense

Table of Contents:

• About
• Balay Negrense History
• The Architecture
• Photos
• How to Get Here
• Related Posts

About Balay Negrense

Balay Negrense in Silay City, Negros Occidental, is a beautifully preserved ancestral house that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a 19th-century sugar baron’s family. Known as the first museum in Negros Occidental, this heritage landmark showcases antique furniture, period décor, and timeless architecture, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture lovers exploring the "Paris of Negros."

Cinco de Noviembre Festival

Table of Contents:

• About
• Stunning Photos
• Related Posts

About Cinco de Noviembre Festival

The Cinco de Noviembre Festival in Negros Occidental is a historic celebration that commemorates the Negrenses’ victorious uprising against Spanish colonizers on November 5, 1898. Centered in Bago City, this festival blends history and heritage through reenactments, exhibits, parades, and cultural performances that honor the bravery of local revolutionaries. More than just a commemoration, it is a proud reminder of the Negrense spirit of freedom and unity.

Centuries Old Churches in Negros and Iloilo

Table of Contents:

• About
• Miag-Ao Church
• Jaro Church
• Molo Church
• Tigbauan Church
• Guimbal Church
• San Jose Church
• Bacolod Cathedral
• San Diego Pro-Cathedral

About

The centuries-old churches of Negros and Iloilo stand as majestic testaments to the Philippines’ rich Spanish colonial history and enduring faith. From the intricate façade of Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the solemn beauty of San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod, these architectural treasures showcase baroque, neoclassical, and Romanesque styles. Built by Filipino artisans and Spanish missionaries, these churches have withstood natural calamities and wars, yet remain deeply rooted in local culture. Walking through their halls, you’ll find not only religious significance but also stories of resilience, artistry, and community. Exploring these sacred landmarks is like traveling back in time to witness centuries of devotion and history.