Nelly Garden (Vicente Lopez Heritage House) | Iloilo City

Nelly Garden, also known as the Vicente Lopez Heritage House, is a landmark Beaux-Arts mansion in the Jaro district of Iloilo City. Built in 1928, it is considered the "Queen of Heritage Houses in Iloilo" and stands as a symbol of the city's aristocratic past.

Visual Characteristics

The mansion is a white, two-story structure featuring classical Greek columns, intricate carvings, and expansive manicured lawns. Its architecture is heavily influenced by the American Colonial and European Beaux-Arts styles. The interior is characterized by high ceilings, massive crystal chandeliers, and polished floors made of indigenous hardwoods. The sprawling garden, from which it takes its name, is filled with tropical flora and centennial trees.

Location & Access Logistics

The mansion is located at E. Lopez Street, Jaro, Iloilo City.

Access: Situated along one of Jaro’s main thoroughfares.

Transport: Reachable via "Jaro CPU" or "Jaro Liko" jeepneys. Taxis and tricycles are widely available and can enter the compound upon request.

Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00–16:00. Closed on weekends.

Fees: A tour fee (approx. PHP 200) is required. Reservations are strictly mandatory for tours, typically requiring at least 2–3 days' notice.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was built by the statesman and sugar baron Don Vicente Lopez and his wife, Doña Elena Hofileña. It was named after their eldest daughter, Nelly. During World War II, the family resisted Japanese attempts to occupy the mansion, and it miraculously survived the conflict without being burned. The estate remains a private property managed by the descendants but is open to the public for heritage tours and exclusive events.

Key Highlights & Activities

Heritage Tours: Guided walks through the interior, showcasing antique furniture, family portraits, and historical artifacts.

Photography: The facade and the front lawn are premier spots for architectural and pre-wedding photography.

Events Venue: The grounds and the house are frequently used for high-end garden weddings and formal receptions.

Garden Exploration: Viewing the diverse collection of plants and the symmetrical landscaping of the front yard.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: Includes paved parking, restrooms, and a registration area for booked guests.

Connectivity: 4G and 5G signals are very strong.

Privacy: The estate is gated and maintains a high level of security and exclusivity.

Best Time to Visit

The morning (09:00–11:00) is best for tours to avoid the midday heat. The light during this time also highlights the white facade of the mansion for photography.

Facts & Legends

A logistical fact is that Nelly Garden is one of the few heritage houses in the Philippines that has remained in the possession of the original family while functioning as a public museum. It has hosted several Philippine presidents and foreign dignitaries over the decades, reinforcing its status as Iloilo’s primary reception hall for the elite.

Nearby Landmarks

Jaro Cathedral – 0.8km Southeast

Jaro Plaza – 0.7km Southeast

Central Philippine University (CPU) – 1.0km North

Casa Mariquit – 1.2km East