The old mansion ruins just outside the limits of Bacolod has enough wow factor to spin the imagination. What stood in front of us was a ghost of sugarland past. It was the most beautiful bare structure I’ve ever seen (save for the fugly net covering inside).
Getting there is about a 20 minute scenic drive outside Bacolod to Talisay. From the highway it’s a good two kilometers down a rocky dirt road which treads through sugar plantations.
Like an oasis in the desert, the mansion stands out and lures people to it. Upon our approach there’s an entrance fee of Php 40.00. Worth each peso to help preserve this beautiful building.
The mansion was built in the 1920s by Don Marciano Ledesma Lacson. Not only was it the largest residential structure in its time, it was also built using A-grade concrete. It has a beautiful Italianate design.
During World War II the mansion was burned by the American forces to prevent the Japanese from turning it into a headquarters.
The structure was burned down but since the concrete portions were made with quality, they withstood time.
Today the site is a reminder of a far richer, glorious past.
We heard that by night this place looks even more stunning. There’s a cafe restaurant inside for tourists. There are also beautiful indoor gardens and staircases which lead to nowhere.
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