GLICERIA MARELLA RESIDENCE

This pre-1850’s structure is built on the northern slope of the town, with a fantastic vista of Balayan Bay viewed from its sala. With its exterior painted in its original colors of mint green and yellow, this imposing house stands proud with its beautiful garden and wrought iron gates. The only Taal home with an original tin ceiling and canvass trompe l’oeil walls, it is often featured in books; national tourism promotions; publications; and, as movie / advertising sets. The house is filled with delicate original and reproduction furniture combined with ancestor’s photos. Framed historical facts regarding its provenance; people who slept within its walls; materials that were used in building it; and, a family tree – are interesting finds.

It is located a few meters from the granite steps popularly known as Hagdan-Hagdan leading to the Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay. The revolutionaries of the Katipunan converged here to plan offensive attacks against the Spaniards. This house was also used to stock Rizal's novels - Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo for distribution to the masses in 1892. It likewise served as quarters for revolutionary leaders like: Andres Bonifacio ( founder of the Katipunan), Miguel Malvar and Felipe Calderon.

The restoration was undertaken by the great- grandson of Gliceria, Ernesto “Ernie” Villavicencio with his wife,Maria Rosario “Ria“ Benedicto. With the completion of the restoration in 1998,history comes full circle with Gliceria, her son Sixto, her grandson Edgardo, and her great-grandson Ernesto “Ernie.” Ernie is the youngest child of the 9 children of Edgardo & wife - Pacita Fajardo Villavicencio.