Traveling Back in Time in Syquia Mansion

We thought the mansion was closed because it was a Sunday and since the massive door was closed. Good thing we knocked and we were welcomed by Rusty, our strict guide. He didn’t allow photos while he was giving us the tour. He was mataray but in an endearing sort of way, complete with a Spanish accent when he says the Spanish words 🙂 We learned later on that he’s the caretaker of the mansion/museum and we really ended up liking him for being such a well of information and historical tidbit. And some gossip too 🙂 I also ended up appreciating his rule on not taking photos because I wasn’t distracted and was really able to listen to him 🙂

Rusty giving us the the details of the Syquia Mansion, including the story behind the piedra china flooring

The bed in the picture is where Dona Alicia was born. The bed is more than a hundred years old but is a true testament of the craftsmanship of the makers. Rusty told us that the wood used in the old days came from mature trees and that’s what makes them last long, while today, the wood used for furniture lasts only a few years. And are more prone to termite.

Anyway, I won’t give you all the details and information I learned that day. But what I’ll tell you is that among all the things we did for our Ilocandia trip, our visit to the Syquia Mansion was easily one of my favorites! I really want to come back here with someone like my mom who I know will appreciate the history 🙂 Or with someone who I know will appreciate all the chismis and the family trees 🙂 Definitely, don’t go to Vigan without going to Syquia Mansion!

Here are the photos after the tour with Rusty graciously acting as our photographer/art director:

Posing by the antique gold mirror. Art direction by Rusty. Love him! 🙂

At the sala

By the grandfather clock and main staircase

In front of the replica of the Spolarium done under the supervision of Juan Luna himself. Now, this is the real “licensed imitation”!

Loving these gorgeous tiles 🙂

At the Syquia Mansion’s kitchen window

Inner courtyard at the mansion’s second floor. I want one like this in my house!

In front of President Quirino’s giant portrait

Piedra china slabs directly from China

Presidential limousine

With the legendary Rusty 🙂

The Syquia Mansion is open everyday except Tuesdays. Admission is free but donations to help maintain the mansion are encouraged 🙂Wishing us more travels, and more time to go back in time 🙂 Cheers!! 🙂

{For Sunset Goddess Manila’s TRAVEL GUIDE TO ILOCOS, click here}