The Yap-Sandiego ancestral house is located at 155-Lopez Jaena corner Mabini Street in Cebu’s Parian, just a few steps away from the Parian Monument. Considered to be one of the oldest, if not the oldest, residential houses in the Philippines, it was built sometime between 1675 and 1700. It was originally owned by Maria, Eleutorio, and Consolacion Yap – early Chinese merchants.

*images are sourced from the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House page at Facebook.

It was still the home of Doña Maria Yap when she married Parian’s Cabeza de Barangay in the 1880s, Don Mariano Sandiego.

Just a few years ago, the old ancestral home was turned over to Doña Maria’s great great grandson, Val Sandiego. Val himself is known in Cebu at present times as an art collector and renowned choreographer.

Under his care, he started to search for ways in restoring the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House for he believes in the value of his ancestor’s home to the history and heritage of Cebu.  And though there have been offers to buy the house from Mr. Val Sandiego, he still continues to nix the proposals and vows never to sell the historical house in his lifetime.

The Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House is open to the public in special occasions in Cebu.  It showcases some old and new artworks; life size statues, especially of the Sto. Niño; furniture made of narra and traditional hardwood; and the smell and feel of the historic times.