Charmaine AchaHave you ever seen an Ivatan house up close and personal?
The Ivatan houses of Batanes are a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Ivatan people. These unique structures, built with thick stone walls and cogon grass roofs, stand as a stark contrast to the more common Filipino dwellings. The Ivatans, an indigenous group inhabiting the northernmost province of the Philippines, developed this architectural style as a response to the region’s harsh climate, characterised by strong winds and typhoons. The sturdy construction of these homes ensures they can withstand the test of time and the elements, making them a symbol of both cultural heritage and practical adaptation.
House of Dakay | Image credit: wanderlasss | Flickr
Batanes is surrounded by major bodies of water including the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, hence it doesn’t have a very stable climate. The Ivatan houses are made of metre-thick limestone and coral walls as well as cogon grass roofs, and they are sturdy enough to withstand strong winds.
House of Dakay | Image credit: wanderlasss | Flickr
The oldest surviving Ivatan house you need to visit is the “House of Dakay” (pictured above) which was built in 1887. It is now maintained by Lola Ida, one of the oldest women living on the island. This well-preserved cultural attraction is another great addition to the many reasons why you need to visit the Philippines.
Head down to Batanes to see these iconic houses before they’re gone.
