In the heart of Bacolod, where time and history converge, lies a testament to the city’s rich past—the Ruins. As the sun descends behind the majestic structure, casting a warm glow upon the weathered bricks, the ruins come alive with tales of elegance and tragedy. Standing tall amidst lush greenery, the skeletal remains of what was once the Mariano Ledesma Lacson Mansion exudes a haunting beauty that captivates every visitor. The Ruins, often dubbed as the Taj Mahal of Negros, tells the story of a love so profound it transcended even the ravages of time. The mansion was built in the early 20th century by Don Mariano Lacson, a wealthy sugar baron, for his beloved wife, Maria Braga. However, tragedy struck during World War II when the mansion was set ablaze by retreating Japanese forces, leaving behind the hauntingly beautiful ruins that stand today.
Approaching the site, one is immediately struck by the juxtaposition of decay and grandeur. Vines climb the remnants of walls, intertwining with the bricks as if trying to reclaim the structure for nature. Yet, amidst the ruins, a sense of elegance prevails. The towering columns, now standing like sentinels of a bygone era, once welcomed guests into a mansion known for its opulence and sophistication. The central courtyard, adorned with a fountain that now lies in a state of graceful disrepair, whispers of gatherings and celebrations that once echoed through its halls. The setting sun paints the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting long shadows that dance upon the weathered stones. Visitors often find themselves drawn to the edge of the reflecting pool, where the ruins mirror their own reflections against a backdrop of historical splendor. The air is filled with a palpable sense of reverence as the ruins silently narrate the love story that transcends the ages, a tale of passion and resilience etched into the very stones that bear witness.
The Ruins have become more than a historical site; they are a living testament to the endurance of love and the indomitable spirit of a city that rose from the ashes. The meticulous preservation of the ruins site by its current custodians reflects the collective commitment to honor the past and ensure that the story of the Lacson Mansion endures for generations to come. As night falls and the ruins are bathed in the soft glow of strategically placed lights, a certain magic envelopes the site. The once-grand mansion transforms into a beacon of history, standing proudly against the backdrop of a star-studded sky. The Ruins’ elegance is not just a visual spectacle; it is a narrative etched in stone, inviting all who visit to become a part of Bacolod’s heart and the timeless saga it holds.