Vega Ancestral House, Heritage house in Balingasag, Philippines
Vega Ancestral House is a heritage building in Balingasag featuring sculptured wooden figures at each corner that support the upper level. The walls display woven abaca patterns throughout, with stone foundations anchoring the entire structure.
Merchant Ignacio Juan Vega constructed the house during the 1800s, and it later served as residence for multiple local presidents. The building reflects the turbulent period when the Philippines transitioned between different ruling powers.
The house displays traditional Philippine architecture that visitors notice immediately upon entering. The combination of molave wood and stone base reflects the building style that emerged during the transition between Spanish and American rule.
The ground floor contains a restaurant operating throughout the day, making it straightforward to visit. Revenue from this facility helps sustain the building's upkeep and preservation work.
The house is known for its carved wooden figures at the corners, called oti-ot in the local Visayan language, representing the three sons of the original owner. These sculptural details represent rare examples of traditional craftsmanship from that period.
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