Casa Rocha-Suarez Heritage Center
Casa Rocha-Suarez Heritage Center is one of the oldest structures in Sitio Ubos, a historic district that emerges from the Butalid Causeway. Built around the 1800s to the 1830s, the house belonged to Julian Rocha, a wealthy merchant from whom other illustrious personalities descended. These include Tagbilaran’s former mayor, Antonio Rocha, and Bohol’s first elected governor, Fernando Rocha.
Today, it serves as a museum that houses the family’s furniture, heirlooms, and personal effects or mementos spanning generations. The ground floor, which used to be a storage room or warehouse, showcases architectural and structural features that are common in vintage houses such as foundations made from coral stone and corbel-supported beams. The second floor features a rare collection of furniture and houseware items from the 18th century to the 19th century.
An original tray ceiling hangs around the living room, which is accentuated by an English chandelier. The main double door of the house cum museum has jambs that are uniquely carved in rosettes. The only thing where the restored structure deviates from the original is that the steep thatch roof has been replaced with a more modern galvanized iron sheet.
Best time to visit
It's best to visit the Casa Rocha-Suarez Heritage Center during the dry months (December to May) as the house is more picturesque without rainfall.
