In the heart of the Philippines lies the city of Bacolod, a place where the vibrant present converges with the rich tapestry of its historical past. Bacolod is a city that has gracefully embraced the modern era while preserving the remnants of its storied history, offering a timeless tapestry that beckons the curious traveler. As one navigates are through the bustling streets, the echoes of an era long gone resonate through the architectural remnants of Spanish colonization. The ruins of The Ruins, an ancestral mansion that stands as a testament to enduring love, have become an iconic symbol of Bacolod’s past. The journey to The Ruins is akin to a voyage through time, as the traveler is transported back to the early 20th century when the sugar industry reigned supreme. This mansion, commissioned by the wealthy sugar baron Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, was not only a testament to architectural grandeur but also a monument to undying love.
Legend has it that the mansion was built in memory of Don Mariano’s beloved wife, Maria Braga, whose life was tragically cut short during pregnancy. The Ruins, standing amidst lush gardens and surrounded by a sea of sugarcane fields, exudes an ethereal beauty that captures the imagination. As one explores the ruins, the intricacies of its Italianate architecture and the resilience of its structure become apparent. Despite enduring the ravages of time and the unfortunate fire that reduced parts of it to ashes during World War II, The Ruins stands tall, a silent witness to the passage of time. The mansion’s skeletal remains seem to whisper tales of opulence, tragedy and the inexorable march of history. Beyond the physical allure, The Ruins invites introspection. It serves as a canvas upon which visitors can paint their own narratives, imagining the lives that once unfolded within its walls.
The mansion’s corridors and rooms, now open to the sky, hint at the social gatherings, laughter and perhaps even heartaches that were once an integral part of its existence. Bacolod, with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism, offers a sanctuary for those seeking to escape the constraints of time. The city’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident not only in the ruins but also in the museums and historic landmarks that dot its landscape. As the sun sets over The Ruins, casting an amber glow on the weathered walls, it becomes apparent that Bacolod is more than a destination—it is a time traveler’s delight, a place where the past and present dance in harmony, weaving a narrative that transcends the boundaries of time itself.
