Top things to do in the Philippines
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In 2003 Jose “Gerry” Acuzar started his project Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar which aims to rebuild Spanish-colonial era heritage houses to preserve the history of the old Philippines. The 400 hectares of land in Bagac, Bataan became the new home of 27 carefully selected houses which are all based on its historical, architectural and cultural value, ensuring that each establishment carries significant importance towards Philippine’s history.
The collection of heritage houses became a part of historic hotels worldwide, wherein the continuous progress of preserving historical, heritage houses of the Philippines was awarded in 2018 by Hotel Sales and Marketing Association.
The origin of the establishment of Las Casas heritage houses happened during the 18th to the 20th century around Quezon, Manila, Pampanga, Bulacan, La Union, Sorsogon, Cagayan, and Ilocos. The brick by brick relocation, reassembly and replication are done by 140 artisans consisting of sculptors, craftsmen architects, artists, and construction workers.
From the twenty-seven preserved casas, thirteen are currently available as accommodation for the overnight stay; While the remaining 14 casas served as a museum of memorabilia of the mansions former owners.
The architecture and landscape of Las Casas Filipinas combined traditional and modern themes, featuring designs similar to European architecture, around the Estero de Binondo.
Together with the preserved heritage houses is the array of recreational activities to entertain visitors and at the same time showcase the beauty of Philippine’s rich culture.
The open-air museum features old Kundiman songs at Paseo de Escolta, while the ground floor contains the Fotografia de la Escolta, a shop providing visitors the opportunity to take photos dressed up on Philippine’s traditional costumes.
The edge of Las Casas contains a seaside beach resort, facing the West Philippine Sea and offers water sports activities to tourist with beach access.