The Ruins (Talisay)
The Ruins
The remains of a mansion built by a sugar tycoon as a memorial to his late wife. Burned during World War II, leaving only a concrete skeleton, it is known as the “Taj Mahal of Negros.”
The Ruins is an Italianate mansion built in the early 20th century by sugar tycoon Mariano Lacson in memory of his late wife, María Braga. During World War II, to keep it from being seized by Japanese forces, guerrillas set it on fire. The blaze burned for three days, destroying all the wooden parts and leaving only the sturdy concrete shell, Corinthian columns and arched windows. It now stands on an open lawn between fountains and is known as the “Taj Mahal of Negros.” At dusk, sunlight streaming through the empty window openings makes for the most striking photos, and the ruins are lit up at night for a moody atmosphere. Admission is about 150 pesos. It is open roughly from 08:00 to 20:00. Once inside, a guided tour tells the family’s story, and there is a café on site. The Ruins is on the outskirts of Talisay, about 5 km from Bacolod city center, a 15–20 minute taxi ride.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–20:00
Nearby sights
- Balay ni Tana Dicang
- Capitol Park and Lagoon
- Negros Museum
- Bacolod Public Plaza
- San Sebastian Cathedral
- Manokan Country
- Panaad Park and Sports Complex
- San Diego Pro-Cathedral