Old Diplomat Hotel: Heritage Hill and Nature Park Garden in Baguio City
The Diplomat Hotel, located atop Dominican Hill in Baguio City, Philippines, is a historic building with a rich and tragic history. Originally built as a rest house and seminary in 1911, it was later converted into a school and eventually a hotel. Despite its picturesque location, the hotel has been abandoned for decades and has become known as one of the most haunted places not only in Baguio City but in the entire Philippines.
The hotel’s tragic history is rooted in its use as a military base during World War II. In 1945, Japanese soldiers used the hotel as a concentration camp where they tortured and killed prisoners of war. After the war, the hotel was restored and used as a seminary and then a hotel until it was abandoned in the 1980s. Since then, it has become a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers, with many claiming to have witnessed paranormal activity on the premises.
Despite its eerie reputation, the Diplomat Hotel remains a popular tourist destination in Baguio City. The local government has initiated rehabilitation efforts, which began in April 2022, with a 15 million Philippine pesos grant from the government. The rehabilitation aims to preserve the hotel’s historical significance and restore it to its former glory.
History of Diplomat Hotel
The Diplomat Hotel was originally built in 1913 as a vacation house for Dominican friars. It was later converted into a seminary, and then a school before it was finally developed into a hotel in 1973.
Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park
The Diplomat Hotel is situated in the Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park, which was once a part of the Baguio’s Dominican Hill Retreat House. The retreat house was established by the Dominican friars in 1911, and it served as a place for rest and contemplation for the friars.
World War II and Kempeitai
During World War II, the Japanese forces occupied the Philippines, and they used the Diplomat Hotel as a garrison and headquarters for the Kempeitai, the Japanese military police. The hotel was heavily bombed by the Americans during the war, and it was left in ruins.
Liberation of the Philippines
After the liberation of the Philippines in 1945, the Diplomat Hotel was rebuilt and renovated by the Dominicans. It was then used as a school and a seminary before it was developed into a hotel in 1973.
Diplomat Hotels, Inc and Tony Agpaoa
In 1973, Diplomat Hotels, Inc. acquired the property and developed it into a hotel. The hotel was owned by Antonio Agapito “Tony” Agpaoa, a prominent businessman and politician in the Philippines. The hotel was known for its luxurious accommodations and stunning views of Baguio City.
In 1987, Tony Agpaoa was assassinated, and the hotel was closed down. Since then, the Diplomat Hotel has been abandoned, becoming a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers.
Despite its tragic history, the Diplomat Hotel remains an important landmark in Baguio City. Its stunning architecture and rich history continue to attract visitors from all over the world.
Architecture and Features
Hotel Design
Diplomat Hotel was designed by Fr. Roque Ruaño, O.P. in 1911. The hotel’s architecture is a blend of Spanish Colonial and Neo-Gothic styles, and it served as a rest house and seminary before being converted into a school and eventually a hotel. The building’s unique design and historical significance make it a popular tourist destination.
Rooftop Views
One of the most notable features of Diplomat Hotel is its stunning rooftop views. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Baguio City and the surrounding mountains from the hotel’s rooftop terrace. The terrace is also a popular spot for taking photos and watching the sunset.
Fountain
Another notable feature of Diplomat Hotel is its beautiful fountain. The fountain, located in the hotel’s courtyard, is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The fountain adds to the hotel’s charm and historical significance.
Parking
Diplomat Hotel offers ample parking for guests, making it a convenient option for those traveling by car. The hotel’s parking lot is located on the grounds of the hotel and is easily accessible from the main entrance.
Supernatural Claims
The Diplomat Hotel in Baguio City has long been associated with supernatural claims. Many visitors have reported eerie experiences and ghost sightings in the hotel. This section will explore some of the most commonly reported supernatural claims.
Haunted Stories
The Diplomat Hotel is said to be one of the most haunted places in the Philippines. Many guests have reported hearing strange noises and experiencing unexplained occurrences. Some have even claimed to have seen apparitions of nuns and priests wandering the halls of the hotel. The hotel’s haunted stories are a popular topic among paranormal enthusiasts.
Headless Apparitions
One of the most famous stories associated with the Diplomat Hotel is that of the headless apparitions. According to legend, during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, several nuns and priests were beheaded by Japanese soldiers on the hotel grounds. Many visitors have reported seeing headless apparitions wandering the halls of the hotel.
Psychic Surgeon
One of the most interesting claims associated with the Diplomat Hotel is that of the psychic surgeon. According to some reports, a psychic surgeon once performed healing sessions in one of the hotel’s rooms. The psychic surgeon is said to have used his hands to perform surgeries without the use of any medical instruments. While there is no concrete evidence to support this claim, it remains a popular topic among those interested in the supernatural.
Diplomat Hotel Today
Tourism
The Diplomat Hotel, located atop Dominican Hill in the City of Pines, Baguio, Philippines, is a popular tourist attraction. The abandoned structure has gained notoriety for its supposed haunted reputation, attracting thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the ruins and take in the scenic views of the city from the hilltop location.
Restoration and Preservation
In April 2022, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines granted 15 million Philippine pesos for the rehabilitation of the Diplomat Hotel. The local government has initiated efforts to restore and preserve the historic site, with the goal of transforming it into a cultural hub. The restoration process aims to maintain the building’s original architecture and features while adding modern amenities to attract visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the location of the Diplomat Hotel?
The Diplomat Hotel is located in two different places in the Philippines. The first one is in Baguio City, situated atop Dominican Hill, and the second one is in downtown Cebu.
What is the historical background of the Diplomat Hotel?
The Diplomat Hotel was built in 1911 as a rest house and seminary in Baguio City. Later on, it was transformed into a school before becoming a hotel. The hotel has a rich history, as it served as a refuge for nuns and priests during World War II.
What is the story behind the Diplomat Hotel in Tagalog?
The Diplomat Hotel was once known as “Bridal Path,” and it served as a seminary for aspiring priests. Later on, it was converted into a hotel, but it was abandoned due to the damage caused by the earthquake in 1990. The hotel’s eerie reputation has been attributed to the tragic events that occurred during World War II, where many nuns and priests were brutally killed.
What happened to the Diplomat Hotel and why is it considered haunted?
The Diplomat Hotel was abandoned in 1990 due to the damage caused by the earthquake. Since then, it has become a popular spot for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers. Many people believe that the hotel is haunted by the spirits of the nuns and priests who were killed during World War II. Some also claim to have seen the ghost of a headless priest wandering around the hotel.
What are some reviews of the Diplomat Hotel and its ghostly reputation?
According to TripAdvisor, the Diplomat Hotel in Cebu City has received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars. Many people have commented on the hotel’s central location and the comfort of its air-conditioned rooms. However, some have also mentioned the hotel’s eerie reputation and the presence of ghosts, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Baguio City Travel and Tour Packages
To help you plan your visit to Baguio, we listed places and other unique activities in Baguio City. We also listed some of the best travel deals, tour packages, excellent flights, and accommodations.
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