Pelaez Ancestral House, Heritage mansion in Medina, Philippines.
Pelaez Ancestral House is a two-story white residence featuring sliding capiz shell windows, decorative ventanillas, and ornamental transoms throughout its structure. The building displays Beaux-Arts architectural style constructed with local timber and ironwood pillars.
Construction took place between 1920 and 1922 when it served as the residence of Don Gregorio Pelaez, the first governor of Misamis Oriental. The building later became associated with Emmanuel Pelaez, who went on to become Vice President of the Philippines.
The house holds a collection of artifacts including antique furniture, porcelain pieces, religious items, and family photographs that document the family's role in regional life. These objects tell stories about daily living and the values important to this household.
The property is located in North Poblacion and remains active through agricultural operations including coconut farming and poultry raising. Visitors should understand that this is a working estate used for traditional livelihood activities.
A Japanese master carpenter oversaw the construction and incorporated local timber and ironwood pillars throughout the design. This collaboration between foreign craftsmen and local materials reflects the region's connections to Asian building traditions.
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