Information about Yap-San Diego Ancestral House

Yap-San Diego Ancestral House

The Yap-San Diego Ancestral House in Cebu is one of the oldest houses in the Philippines and is said to be the first-ever Chinese house built outside of China. Made during the Spanish colonial era, it is a 17th-century structure featuring a combination of Spanish and Chinese influences.

Built between 1675 and 1700, the house originally belonged to a wealthy Chinese merchant, Don Juan Yap, and his wife, Doña Maria Florido, together with their three children, Maria, Consolacion, and Eleuterio. In the 1880s, Maria, their eldest daughter, married the Parian Cabeza de barangay, Don Mariano San Diego. The house got its name from their marriage.

The family had become significant members of the society during that time, especially in the field of arts and culture. As a matter of fact, they took part in the creation of Cebu's Sinulog Festival.

The house was passed down to Dona Maria's great-great grandson, Val Mancao San Diego, and his wife, Ofelia, in 2008. Val San Diego is the choreographer of the San Diego dance company. He is also an art collector. He turned the house into a museum that features his ancestors’ history, making it one of the most visited attractions in Cebu.

How to get there

Upon arriving at the terminal of Cebu City, hire a taxi or ride a multi-cab to Marina Mall. From Marina Mall, ride a multi-cab or jeepney that bears a "highway" sign and tell the driver to drop you off at Maguikay. From there, ride any Mandaue jeepney with a "catedral" or "colon" sign that will take you to the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral or Colon Street. The Yap-San Diego Ancestral House is within walking distance from there.

Best time to visit

It is best to visit this ancestral landmark during the off-peak season as it tends to get crowded during the holidays. The Yap-San Diego Ancestral House is open from 9 AM to 7 PM. 

Entrance fee

Visitors have to pay a minimal fee to enter the ancestral house.