Balay Sueño, meaning ‘dream house’ in Spanish, stands as a testament to Don Modesto Ledesma’s vision. This two-story ancestral home, built in the 1940s in Iloilo City, was the realized dream of the wealthy haciendero who also served as mayor of Jaro from 1920 to 1931.
Balay Sueño remained a Ledesma family residence until the 1990s, when the Espinosa family acquired and meticulously restored it, transforming the ancestral home into a popular café in 2018. Today, it’s a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.
Balay Sueño stands as a beautifully preserved exemplar of Spanish colonial architecture, featuring a spacious courtyard and lush garden. Inside, period furniture and artwork enhance its historic charm. The café within offers authentic Filipino cuisine and pastries, while the house itself serves as a sought-after venue for weddings, events, and private gatherings.
Read also: List of Iloilo City Cultural Heritage Sites