house of dakay

Debatably the oldest house in San Jose de Ivana. It is a heritage treasure in Batanes, and is probably the most photographed house in Batanes, as it is seen in a lot of magazines, postcards, tourist publications, etc. It is built in the traditional Ivatan architecture, to withstand strong typhoons- thick walls built with stones and lime, cogon grass roof. You may borrow traditional costumes within and take pictures, for a few bucks. A must visit when in Ivana.

Seeing this simple, yet culturally and historically significant structure was amazing. Part of the House of Dakay's charm was that it had actually remained a home throughout these years. The dedication towards its preservation should serve as an inspiration when it comes to other heritage houses in the Philippines.

The house of Dakay is the oldest surviving house in the town of San Jose de Ivana in Batan island. With very thick walls made of stone and lime, a roof thatched with cogon grass,, it has stood the test of time. Typical of the architectural style of Batanes as infuenced by the Spanish missionaries in the 17th century, the Vahay ni Dakay has retained the original parts of the house and still in very good condition including the shutters and the wooden floors. A MUST SEE !!

When we visit the place, Grandma Dakay had already passed away... I was actually looking forward on visiting her... Anyway, the place is still intact and educational.I would recommend anyone to visit one of the oldest stone houses in batanes.

Who would be interested in a small stone house tucked in one of the smallest town in the country? Well, I was interested and I never regretted visiting. This was built in 1887 and had survived a major earthquake. For that alone it was worth a visit. This house had also reminded me that indeed, a house is not a home. This is a very small house but the folks (including the neighbours) were really really nice people, very warm and accommodating. I really didn't want to bother the locals but they were very nice to us, telling us stories with smiles on their faces making this house one of the best homes I have ever seen.

This is the oldest house in Batanes. It is constructed in the traditional way with rocks and cemented together with cooked limestone. The house is interesting because it is old and because there not too many of these old houses left.It was the Spaniards who taught the Ivatans to use rocks and limestone to make sturdy dwellings for the harsh winds. Going into the house let me appreciate how difficult life was here with the constant storms. It was dark with small windows. Basically there was just one big room.Even if it is just a house, it will make you reflect on how people coped with the weather here.

There are several stone houses to visit in Batanes (particularly in Sabtang), but this one is the the oldest and hence one of the most photographed houses in Batanes.The owner, Lola Ida, was out of town (getting medical attention) when we visited. Worth a visit (during your South Island tour) for a few good photo opportunities. You also get a good glimpse of the Ivatan lifestyle/housing.

They make a big deal about this place, I know it's historic but there are many other houses like it. Our tour caught the residents in the middle of a meal with laundry hanging outside making a good photograph a bit awkward.