Casa Mariquit Iloilo
Step back in time at Casa Mariquit, Iloilo's oldest heritage house, built in 1803. Explore centuries of history, architecture, and family legacies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Casa Mariquit Iloilo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Casa Mariquit, Iloilo's oldest heritage house, built in 1803. Explore centuries of history, architecture, and family legacies.
"A well-maintained ancestral house with a knowledgeable guide that makes you learn so much!"
🚶♀️ Walk-in Friendly
No need to book ahead! Just arrive and the friendly caretakers will guide you. :admission_tickets:
💰 Affordable Entry
Experience history for just 50 PHP. A small price for a big dose of heritage. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Dining Hall
Interior
Imagine centuries of family gatherings in this beautifully preserved dining space, a testament to Iloilo's rich past.
The Courtyard
Rear of the house
A serene escape with a historic Balete tree, offering a glimpse into the estate's expansive grounds and natural beauty.
Mariquit's Balcony
Upstairs
This spot holds a secret – a peephole where Mariquit would gauge her suitors. A charming touch of romance and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk-in Friendly
No need to book ahead! Just arrive and the friendly caretakers will guide you. :admission_tickets:
💰 Affordable Entry
Experience history for just 50 PHP. A small price for a big dose of heritage. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Your guide can help you find the best spots for memorable photos inside and out. :camerawithflash:
👂 Listen to the Stories
The caretakers are incredibly knowledgeable and share fascinating tales of the house and its past residents. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk-in Friendly
No need to book ahead! Just arrive and the friendly caretakers will guide you. :admission_tickets:
💰 Affordable Entry
Experience history for just 50 PHP. A small price for a big dose of heritage. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Your guide can help you find the best spots for memorable photos inside and out. :camerawithflash:
👂 Listen to the Stories
The caretakers are incredibly knowledgeable and share fascinating tales of the house and its past residents. :microphone:
💡 Embrace the Ambiance
The dim lighting inside adds to the historic feel. Don't let it spook you; it's part of the charm! :flashlight:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Casa Mariquit for its well-maintained state and the wealth of historical information provided by its knowledgeable caretakers. While some find the dim interior a bit spooky, the engaging tours make it a fascinating and educational experience. It's a highly recommended destination for those interested in Iloilo's rich heritage.
"It's a well-maintained ancestral house.
Personally, the inside of the house felt spooky but the tour guide was very knowledgeable about the place and I learned so much that it made me brush off the initial fear of going inside the house!
It's only about a 10-minute walk from Jaro Cathedral.
You don't need to buy tickets in advance, all you have to do is walk in and you'll be greeted by caretakers.
The house is vast-- with wide rooms and lots of pictures and paintings. The windows are made of capiz shells and the floorboards and ceiling made of wood.
I specifically liked the dining hall, the courtyard at the back, and the balcony.
It's quite dim inside. When we visited it's just us and the tour guide. The entrance fee is just 50 PHP."
akii
"If only walls and furniture could talk, what stories they can tell.
Went on a guided tour of Casa Mariquit Javellana-Lopez. This is considered the oldest heritage house in Iloilo City. It was built in 1803 (222 years old now) for Ramon Javellana both as a bank and their residence.
This was also the residence of Maria Salvacion "Mariquit" Javellana, his granddaughter who became the wife of the only two time Vice President of the Philippines, Fernando "Nanding" Lopez. He was the VP of both Quirino and Marcos. His chance at the Presidency never happened because Marcos declared Martial Law and stayed in power for 20 years.
This home is now a museum. Open to the public, tours are being conducted by the house caretakers, father and son, Bon Bon and Jon Jon. Upkeep of the house is being handled by Mariquit's son-in-law, Robert Puckett. He is one of the proponents of alternative energy. Back in 1991, he was already espousing solar energy and is considered a pillar of the e-jeepney.
Jon Jon had a lot of interesting stories to tell specially about the age of the objects in the house like the 125 yr old Grandfather Clock that's made in Germany that has not been primed nor serviced all this time and is still working. The Balete tree outside the house that is believed to be 300 years old. The hole in the wall of the upstairs living area which is believed to be a peephole for Mariquit to see if suitors serenading ("harana") her are to her liking. If so, she steps out into the veranda, if not she's "not home."
Pope John Paul II who is now a saint visited the house in 1981 and prayed with them in the Oratorio or prayer room. They had good ties with the Church and even have a tunnel from the house that ends in the belfry of the Jaro Cathedral. Probably Church collection was passed through here to reach the bank safely. This supposedly was very helpful during the Second World War to hide females from the invading Japanese.
Were all these true? The walls and the house would know. It has been around more years than you and I."
Chito Mauleon
"This was a worth while tour of the house built in the Spanish time. A wonderful tour conducted by the young caretaker of the property. The stairs and furniutre including the flooring were all preserved in good condition.
A plus, the tour guide was good in taking pictures of you at good spots in the house.
We will definetly go back to this tourist spot in Iloilo! 🤓"
Sonny R. Castro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casa Mariquit is conveniently located just a short 10-minute walk from Jaro Cathedral, making it easy to combine visits. You can easily find it by following local directions or using a map app.
Casa Mariquit is situated in Jaro, Iloilo City. You can take a local jeepney or a taxi to the Jaro area, and then it's a short walk to the house. Many visitors find it accessible from other key Iloilo City landmarks.
Yes, it's located in Jaro, Iloilo City, and is often mentioned as being close to Jaro Cathedral, making it relatively easy to locate.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but given its location in a residential area, street parking might be available. It's best to check upon arrival or consider public transport.
Ride-sharing apps are generally available in Iloilo City and can be a convenient way to get to Casa Mariquit. Simply input 'Casa Mariquit' as your destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to buy tickets in advance. Visitors can simply walk in and will be greeted by the caretakers who will facilitate your entry.
The entrance fee for Casa Mariquit is a very affordable 50 PHP per person.
Specific opening hours are not always widely published, but it's generally open to visitors during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or aim for a visit during typical daytime hours.
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's a heritage house with historical and cultural significance. Dressing respectfully is recommended.
Tours are conducted by the house caretakers, and it's highly recommended to take the guided tour to fully appreciate the history and stories of the house.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Casa Mariquit, you'll find vast rooms with original furniture, paintings, and personal belongings of the Javellana and Lopez families. Highlights include capiz shell windows and wooden floorboards.
Yes, Casa Mariquit offers many picturesque spots for photography. The caretakers are even known to help visitors find the best angles and locations for photos.
A visit, including the guided tour, usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing ample time to absorb the history and details of the house.
Given its age and historical construction, accessibility for wheelchairs might be limited, especially with stairs and original flooring. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility options beforehand.
Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors. It's always a good idea to confirm with the caretakers upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The dining hall, the courtyard with the Balete tree, and the upstairs balcony are particularly photogenic. The caretakers can also point out unique architectural details and historical artifacts for great shots.
Photography is generally allowed inside Casa Mariquit, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the artifacts and ask the caretakers if you're unsure about specific areas.
For personal visits, tripods and professional equipment might be restricted to avoid disruption. It's best to inquire with the caretakers about their policy on professional photography.
The interior of Casa Mariquit is quite dim, which adds to its historic ambiance. This can create a moody, atmospheric feel for photos, but you might need to adjust your camera settings accordingly.
While generally welcoming to photographers, avoid flash photography that could damage delicate artifacts or disturb the atmosphere. Always follow the guidance of the caretakers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
+1 The detailed narratives from the caretakers, covering everything from architectural details to the historical figures who resided there, are incredibly enriching. 📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Iloilo's Past: The History of Casa Mariquit
Over the years, it became the ancestral home of the influential Javellana and Lopez families. Notably, it was the residence of Maria Salvacion "Mariquit" Javellana, who later married Fernando "Nanding" Lopez, the Vice President of the Philippines under two different administrations. This connection to prominent historical figures adds another layer to the house's significance. The house is meticulously maintained, preserving its original architectural features and the stories embedded within its walls.
During World War II, the house played a role in protecting women from the invading Japanese forces, and it even hosted Pope John Paul II in 1981, who prayed in its Oratorio. The presence of a tunnel connecting to the Jaro Cathedral's belfry hints at its historical importance during times of conflict and for religious practices.
Exploring Casa Mariquit: Architecture and Artifacts
Inside, the house is adorned with a collection of antique furniture, paintings, and personal artifacts that belonged to the Javellana and Lopez families. Each item tells a story, from the 125-year-old Grandfather Clock that still keeps time to the intimate details of Mariquit's life. The tour guides, often descendants or long-time caretakers, share captivating anecdotes about these objects, bringing the history to life.
Key areas that often capture visitors' attention include the formal dining hall, the serene courtyard with its ancient Balete tree, and the upstairs living area. The latter features a curious 'peephole' in the wall, a romantic detail from Mariquit's time. The overall experience is one of stepping back in time, surrounded by the tangible remnants of a bygone era.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit