Villa Angela Heritage House is one of Vigan’s most iconic bahay na bato, built during the Spanish colonial era. It was built in 1873 by Gobernadorcillo Agapito Florendo y Bonifacio, a municipal governor, and his wife Doña María Villanueva. The home was passed to their eldest daughter, Joaquina Villanueva Florendo, who then passed it on to her niece, Angela Florendo Villanueva, for whom the house is named.

In 1986, Angela's son, Candelario Villanueva-Verzosa, and his wife, Purificacion Lahoz-Verzosa, began a restoration project to preserve both its structure and the ancestral artifacts. Villa Angela Heritage House was formally opened on December 24, 1988 to commemorate the couple's golden wedding anniversary. It was also one of the first registered ancestral houses in Vigan that was restored and played a role in the declaration of Vigan as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Because of its distinct and well-preserved architecture, the heritage hotel has graced TV and film screens numerous times. The home’s stately interiors have appeared in several notable Filipino productions, including Jose Rizal (1997), Noli Me Tangere, and the modern TV series Maria Clara at Ibarra.

Villa Angela Heritage House is a classic example of 19th-century colonial Philippine homes, particularly the bahay na bato style, which combines native Filipino elements with Spanish colonial influences. While the upper floor was maintained to reflect the affluence of its original owners, the lower floor which was once the storage area, was transformed into dormitory-style rooms that accommodate larger groups.

Inside, Villa Angela radiates an atmosphere of old-world grandeur. The house features hardwood floors, massive narra beams, antique furniture, and pieces like butaka (traditional rocking chair), victrola (old phonograph), and an old harp. Capiz-shell windows diffuse sunlight into the rooms while ensuring privacy and ventilation, especially during the hot Philippine summers. Aside from the large sala (living room), the comedor (dining room) with a long table has also been retained.

At Villa Angela Heritage House, each room is carefully preserved to make guests feel as if they've traveled back in time. All rooms have four-poster beds, air conditioning, en-suite toilets and baths, heated showers, and a mosquito net to add to their vintage charm.

For couples looking to tie the knot in a setting rich with history, romance, and old-world charm, Villa Angela Heritage House offers an unforgettable backdrop. Aside from its garden with large trees, the wooden staircases, arched windows, classic furniture, and ambient lighting provide a dramatic setting that's perfect for pre-wedding photoshoots. Guests can have their wedding at nearby churches like Vigan Cathedral and have the intimate reception at the hotel.

Villa Angela Heritage House also accommodates small to mid-sized weddings, private receptions, or celebrations in its courtyard or front garden area, depending on the weather. Make sure to coordinate with the hotel staff for event styling, catering, and floral arrangements for a memorable wedding day. You can also ask them for third-party supplier recommendations and request assistance in customizing packages.

Cultural Experiences

As a living museum, Villa Angela Heritage House offers a rich setting for immersive cultural experiences that reflect the history, artistry, and traditions of Vigan. Within the hotel itself, guests can find a treasure trove of antique furniture, family heirlooms, vintage photographs, and religious artifacts, offering guests a personal and human connection to history.

Moreover, guests can immerse themselves by renting traditional Filipino attire and pose for photos on the grand staircase, balcony, and other areas of the house. The staff also offers guided tours that walk visitors through historic sites like Calle Crisologo and Vigan Cathedral, giving them a deeper appreciation of this UNESCO-listed historic city.

Embodying the spirit of Filipino hospitality, guests can ask for personalized recommendations for their itineraries, and the staff will also be glad to arrange reservations.

Villa Angela Heritage House is open to hosting small celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. You can also coordinate with the hotel staff should you wish to have a cake or flowers delivered for a meaningful celebration. Depending on the availability, you can also arrange for a private dinner at the dining area or at the outdoor garden.