Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar – A Step Back in Time
When in Manila, a 3-hour drive to Bagac, Bataan will let you step back in time and discover the rich heritage of the Philippines showcased in a large collection of restored and preserved antique houses at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar.
Old house on the right side serves as the Reception Area of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar.
From another angle, the Reception Area.
Nestled in between two mountains and situated in a beach facing the West Philippine Sea, a visit to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar will transport you back in history as it re-creates the olden neighborhood our ancestors used to live in.
The Ultimate Time Travel
Jose “Gerry” Acuzar, owner of New San Jose Builders, was a student of architecture and has always been fascinated with mementos from the distant past. This fascination alongside his patriotism to preserve our heritage plus his travels all over the world has drawn the motivation in restoring and rebuilding old mansions in Bagac, Bataan.
He started this endeavor in 2003, which initially served as a personal collection that is now open to the public.
Las Casa Filipinas de Acuzar, or The Philippine Houses of Acuzar, is an open-air museum and heritage park consisting over 50 old houses. Some of these houses were transferred from their old locations to Bagac, Bataan to preserve them and prevent them from being decimated, while some houses that don’t have salvageable parts were made with replicas.
The olden neighborhood is a work-in-progress, with new “hotel” structures being constructed along what they call Estero de Binondo and a heritage church being built, which will be used mainly for weddings.
Casa Cagayan – At the Beachfront
One humble abode at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is Casa Cagayan. It is located on the other side of the heritage park where you need to pass through the Tulay ni Lola Basyang. It is by the beach front, which offers a great sunset view. On the other side is the view of the mountains, which gives an amazing sunrise view.
The room we stayed in was very spacious. It had two king size beds, a dining table, and a roomy toilet and bath.
Though the rooms look old, they are well taken care of.
Plus, selfie!
