Photo: Patrickroque01, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Housed in the former provincial jail, built in 1911, the museum features five galleries on its lower floor and an open gallery on the second floor, showcasing artifacts from across the Western Visayas region.
The National Museum of the Philippines – Iloilo, also known as the National Museum Western Visayas and the Iloilo and Western Visayas Regional Museum, is a museum in Iloilo City, Philippines, housed in the former Iloilo Provincial Jail, also known as the Iloilo Rehabilitation Center. The building was constructed in 1911 and served as the provincial jail until 2006. It is located within the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Complex in Iloilo City Proper. In addition to the building, the Old Jaro Municipal Hall in the district of Jaro is also part of the museum.
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Built in 1971, this provincial museum was the first government-sponsored museum in the Philippines outside Metro Manila. It houses a collection of artifacts, historical items, and exhibits on local culture, as well as temporary art and cultural displays. It’s an excellent place to explore Iloilo’s history, traditions, and artistic heritage.
Old Iloilo Provincial Capitol
The building, formerly the seat of the provincial government of Iloilo, has undergone numerous renovations and additions since it became the seat of the civil government in 1901. It was used as a military garrison by Japanese Imperial Forces during World War II. The building also hosted the Vin d'honneur (wine of honor) for the 117th Philippine Independence Day, led by President Benigno S. Aquino III—the first Vin d'honneur held outside Malacañang Palace.
A riverside leisure spot where visitors can dine, relax, and enjoy scenic cruises along the Iloilo River. Private boat rentals and chartered trips are available, including leisure cruising and selected trips toward the Iloilo Strait and Guimaras.
The city’s historic street, lined with late 19th and early 20th-century neoclassical and art deco buildings. The street has been famous since the Spanish era and once served as the city's main shopping center for more than a century. Eusebio Villanueva Building, a neoclassical building built in 1927, stands as one of the most iconic landmarks along Calle Real. Many other structures are also under heritage conservation.
Aduana de Iloílo
Built in 1916, it is a neoclassical structure designed by American architect Ralph Harrington Doane. It stands as the second largest and second oldest American-era customs house in the Philippines, following those in Manila and Cebu.
The national museum highlights the Philippines’ maritime heritage, featuring shipbuilding, trade, port activities, and Iloilo’s role as a major trading hub.