Cuenca Ancestral House, Ancestral house in Bacoor, Philippines
The Cuenca Ancestral House is a two-story residential building in Bacoor combining stone and wood construction typical of wealthy 19th-century homes. The ground floor sits on a sturdy stone base, while the upper level is made of wood with large windows that let light flood into the rooms.
Originally constructed as a private home for a wealthy family, the house became historically significant during the Filipino independence struggle in the late 1890s. It temporarily served as the seat of government in 1898, making it one of the earliest symbols of the newly independent nation.
The house reflects how a wealthy Filipino family lived during the late 1800s, with its layout and furnishings telling stories about daily routines and social customs of that time. Walking through the rooms, you can sense the way generations used the space differently based on their roles and relationships.
The building sits on a main road heading toward Bacoor Town Proper, so it is easy to reach by public transportation or a personal vehicle. Visitors should confirm visiting hours beforehand since access depends on the current restoration or preservation status.
The building was briefly called the First Malacañang because it housed the revolutionary government before an official presidential residence was established. This period shows how the young nation had to make do with available buildings while building its new institutions.
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