The Taj Mahal of Negros: Visiting The Ruins in Talisay City

If you are searching for a destination that combines romance, history and stunning scenery, there is a place in Negros Occidental that should be on your list. The Ruins in Talisay City is often called the Taj Mahal of Negros, and the story behind it is just as captivating as its beauty.

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A Mansion Built for Love

In the 1920s, Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, a wealthy sugar baron, built a grand mansion as a tribute to his beloved wife Maria Braga who sadly passed away during childbirth. Many locals compare it to the Taj Mahal in India because it was born from the same emotions of love and loss.

The mansion was designed with elegance in mind, featuring sweeping verandas, grand staircases and symmetrical architecture. Its walls were made to last, using a mix of concrete and egg whites, an unusual but effective method that has helped it survive until today.

Fire, War and Resilience

Image credit: Lacson Ruins / The Ruins | FB page

During World War II, guerrilla fighters made the difficult choice to burn the mansion so Japanese forces could not use it as a military base. The fire raged for days but the sturdy concrete frame remained standing.

These walls, now weathered by time, are a reminder of enduring love and unbreakable strength.

From Private Estate to Global Landmark

What was once a private family home is now a tourist attraction that has been recognised as one of the twelve most fascinating ruins in the world and listed among the top landmarks worldwide.

Its location is only a short drive from Bacolod Silay International Airport, making it easy to include in your itinerary. The surrounding area is rich in culture, with heritage homes, museums and historic churches that you can explore before or after your visit.

Why You Should Visit

• Golden hour beauty – The mansion glows warmly in the late afternoon light, perfect for photos.

• Photographer’s dream – Every corner offers a picture perfect angle, from the gardens to the towering arches.

• A touch of history – Walk through a place that has witnessed love, war and survival.

Visiting Information

• Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily except during special events

• Admission fees: ₱150 for adults, ₱100 for senior citizens and PWDs, ₱80 for students, free for children under 8

• Location: Talisay City, Negros Occidental, around 20 to 30 minutes from Bacolod City

Travel Tip for Filipino Visitors

Image credit: Lacson Ruins / The Ruins | FB page

If you are travelling from Bacolod, combine your visit with a local food trip. Negros is famous for dishes like chicken inasal, piaya and fresh seafood which are perfect after a day of exploring. For sunset lovers, stay until evening to capture the most cinematic photos of The Ruins.

Final thought

The Ruins is more than just a beautiful structure. It is a love story carved in stone and a proud reminder that the Philippines is home to world-class heritage sites that are worth exploring.