The house, built circa 1800s now stands for more than 150 years. Upon entering the structure, you will be greeted by a souvenir shop, selling various goods and products including tablea (made from native cacao) among others. There are also traditionally woven hablon, with its vibrant colors that channel the personalities of the Ilonggos.
The lower part of the structure or the silong, houses an antique grand piano and chandeliers made out of capiz shells. Various urns, and other antiquities are also visible. The silong boasts its 24 posts, a status symbol during the Spanish period.
Before reaching the upper storey of the house, one must pass by the escalera or the grand staircase. Built on a 46-degree angle, these stairs are what the elites take during the spanish era. This was constructed as it is, for the purpose of warding off the tulisans attempting to rob the illustrados. To be able to safely climb the stairs, one must carefully and gracefully traverse each step side ways - like a true member of the upper class.
Before reaching the upper storey of the house, one must pass by the escalera or the grand staircase. Built on a 46-degree angle, these stairs are what the elites take during the spanish era. This was constructed as it is, for the purpose of warding off the tulisans attempting to rob the illustrados. To be able to safely climb the stairs, one must carefully and gracefully traverse each step side ways - like a true member of the upper class.
The upper part of the house is spacious with high ceilings, allowing for air to circulate inside the room. There, one could locate the altar where antique statues of saints are found. It is an area where the family could gather and pray together. The biggest part of the house, the sala mayor, overlooks the streets of Arevalo. Its floors are a combination of narra and kamagong, two of Philippines' toughest trees. The ceilings are made of stamped tin, inspired by Dutch design. A large window made of Capiz shells adds a touch of history to the place.
The place also contains wooden narra furnitures suitable for guests to dine if they wanted to. A buffet of authentic locally sourced dishes suitable for breakfast, lunch or dinner, will be prepared at a reasonable price. To complete the tour and overall experience, a must try would be their "tsokolate eh"(thick native chocolate). Prepared and concocted like how the illustrados of the past would enjoy it, the perfect balance of richness and delicious taste would linger even after leaving the house.
The place also contains wooden narra furnitures suitable for guests to dine if they wanted to. A buffet of authentic locally sourced dishes suitable for breakfast, lunch or dinner, will be prepared at a reasonable price. To complete the tour and overall experience, a must try would be their "tsokolate eh"(thick native chocolate). Prepared and concocted like how the illustrados of the past would enjoy it, the perfect balance of richness and delicious taste would linger even after leaving the house.
There are numerous age-old houses located in Iloilo, and Camiña Balay nga Bato is definitely a go-to! Experience the past, and have a glimpse of the loyal and noble city of Iloilo!
