Coconut Palace, Government residence in Manila, Philippines
Description
The Coconut Palace is a government building in Manila, Philippines, serving as an official residence with a characteristic octagonal floor plan. The roof recalls a traditional salakot hat, while the interiors feature native hardwoods and coconut materials.
History
Imelda Marcos had the building erected in 1978 as a guesthouse, funding it with 37 million Philippine pesos from a coconut farmers' fund. The government later took over its use for official purposes.
Culture
The name reflects the central role of coconut materials in the construction, with fibers, shells, and lumber used in floors, wall panels, and furniture throughout. Each room showcases handcrafted work from a particular region, offering insight into local techniques such as weaving and carving.
Practical
The building is located in the Cultural Center Complex between the Folk Arts Theatre and the Sofitel Hotel, making orientation straightforward. Visits require advance booking and are usually conducted as guided tours.
Did you know?
A chandelier made from 101 coconut shells hangs over the dining table, which is inlaid with 40,000 small pieces of coconut shell. Both elements demonstrate the variety of ways this material can be worked.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Manila).
Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden
1.4 km
Rizal Memorial Stadium
1.6 km
Cathedral of Praise
1.8 km
Rizal Memorial Sports Complex
1.6 km
Tanghalang Pambansa
720 m
Malate Church
1.7 km
Metropolitan Museum of Manila
1.1 km
Baywalk
1.5 km
St. La Salle Hall
1.8 km
Fort San Antonio Abad
1.1 km
Aliw Theater
666 m
APEC Sculpture Garden
227 m
Chapel of the Most Blessed Sacrament
1.8 km
Upside Down Museum
804 m
The House of Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez historical marker
1 km
Engracia Cruz Reyes historical marker
1.6 km
Museo ng Sining, GSIS
992 m
Here Lived Claro Mayo Recto historical marker
1.5 km
Memorare historical marker (comfort women)
1.2 km
Derham Park
1.9 km
Felipe Encarnacion Agoncillo and Marcela Mariño de Agoncillo historical marker
1.5 km
Pablo Ocampo historical marker
1.5 km
Manila Yacht Club historical marker
1 km
Church of Malate historical marker
1.6 km
The Aristocrat historical marker
1.5 km
Fort of San Antonio Abad historical marker
1.1 km
Elpidio R. Quirino historical marker
1.2 km
Memorare historical marker (massacre at DLSU)
1.8 km
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes