The Ruins Mansion, Bacolod

The Ruins Mansion, often referred to simply as The Ruins, is a hauntingly beautiful tourist destination nestled in the heart of Bacolod, Philippines. This early 20th-century mansion was once the grand residence of sugar baron Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson but now stands as a poignant museum of love, loss, and history.

Constructed in the 1900s, The Ruins is an Italianate structure with neo-Romanesque columns, a testament to the opulence of the sugar industry's heyday. The mansion was intentionally set ablaze during World War II to prevent Japanese forces from utilizing it as their headquarters. What remains is a skeletal yet majestic structure, with its coral stone walls still standing strong against time's relentless march.

Visitors to The Ruins can explore the remnants of this once lavish home and learn about its rich history and the family who lived there. The mansion's history is romantically tragic, as it was built in loving memory of Don Mariano's late wife, Maria Braga. The Ruins serves as an enduring symbol of their love story, with Maria's initials elegantly molded onto the mansion's posts.

The Ruins is open to the public, offering guided tours that provide insight into the mansion's architectural details and the lifestyle of the sugar barons of the era. The garden surrounding the mansion is meticulously maintained, providing a serene ambiance for guests to enjoy. The site also features a restaurant where visitors can savor local cuisine while taking in the breathtaking views of the mansion's remains.

In the evenings, The Ruins transforms with strategic lighting, casting a golden glow over the structure and accentuating its dramatic silhouette against the night sky. This makes it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic backdrop.