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Asunción is the capital of Paraguay and a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. It is nestled along the eastern bank of the Paraguay River, where it developed from being one of the oldest modern cities in South America. Founded in 1537, Asunción has grown from a small colonial outpost into a thriving urban center that serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of Paraguay.
Asunción was founded on August 15, 1537, by Spanish explorer Juan de Salazar y Espinosa. The city was established as a fort on the Feast of the Assumption, which is how it got its name. Asunción quickly became a hub for Spanish colonial expeditions, and it served as the launching point for the founding of other significant cities in the region, including Buenos Aires in present day Argentina.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Asunción flourished as the center of Spanish colonial administration in the Río de la Plata Basin. However, its importance began to wane after Buenos Aires was founded again in 1580 and became the primary port and administrative center. Despite this, Asunción remained a vital cultural and economic center. The city saw significant Jesuit influence, with missions established to convert the indigenous Guaraní population.
Asunción played a great role in Paraguay’s quest for independence from Spanish rule. On May 14, 1811, Paraguay declared its independence in Asunción. The city endured hardships during the War of the Triple Alliance, 1864-1870, when it was occupied by Brazilian forces. Despite these years, Asunción emerged as the political and cultural heart of Paraguay. You can see that today, when you walk the streets of Asunción, where you can enjoy a fascinating mix of styles from colonial architecture to modern skyscrapers mixed with green parks.
Plaza Independencia is the central square of Asunción and is one of the city’s most historically significant and picturesque urban spaces. Several events through history took place here like on May 14, 1811, when Paraguay declared its independence from Spanish rule from here. The declaration is commemorated annually, making the plaza a focal point for national celebrations for many citizens.
There are quite a few sights around the large square. They are landmarks and important buildings and monuments that reflect Asunción’s cultural and architectural heritage. You can see El Cabildo on the north side of the square. Once the colonial town hall, this building now serves as a cultural center and museum, offering exhibitions on Paraguayan history and art.
On the west side, you can see the National Congress/Congreso Nacional, which is the seat of the two chambers in the political system of Paraguay. On the east side, opposite the National Congress, you can visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, which is the oldest and most important church in the city.
The square consists of three squares, namely the Plaza de Armas to the west, Plaza del Congreso to the north and Plaza Juan de Salazar to the east. When you walk the square and squares, you can see some monuments. Along the street Paraguayo Independiente is the Columna de la Independencia Nacional, which is a column marking the independence of Paraguay.
You will find an obelisk on Plaza de Armas. It is known as the Madre de Ciudades Monument, and it is a monument that commemorates Asunción’s status as the Mother of Cities, a title earned due to its historical role in the founding of several other cities in the region during the Spanish colonial era. Thereby, the obelisk stands as a tribute to the Asuncións importance in the expansion of Spanish influence in South America.
The Centro Cultural de la República – El Cabildo is an important place in Paraguay’s cultural and historical heritage. The building itself dates to the mid-19th century, having been constructed between 1844 and 1857 under the direction of architect Pascual Urdapilleta, and the present cultural center opened in 2004.
El Cabildo originally served as the colonial town hall, and the building played various roles throughout its history, including housing the executive and legislative branches of government. Today, the Centro Cultural de la República – El Cabildo features a variety of exhibitions and programs that highlight Paraguayan art, history, and traditions. You can explore galleries with art and attend various cultural events.
Catedral Metropolitana or the Metropolitan Cathedral, commonly known as Asunción Cathedral, is one of the oldest buildings in Asunción. It stands a testament to the city’s colonial past and religious heritage. Its grand façade and interior provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of the bustling city.
The site of the Asunción Cathedral has been a place of worship since the 1600s. The original cathedral was founded as the first diocese of the Río de la Plata, but it was replaced by the current church in the mid-1800s, when the present cathedral was completed and inaugurated in 1845 during the presidency of Carlos Antonio López, who wanted to modernize Asunción with several new building projects.
The cathedral’s design is a mix of neoclassical and colonial architectural styles. On a visit, you can explore the interior of the cathedral with its beautiful altars, intricate woodwork, and religious artifacts. It remains an active place of worship and a historical landmark that offers insight into the spiritual life of Asunción, and the most notable interior is the impressive high altar.
Palacio de los López, also known as the Presidential Palace, is a fine example of neoclassical architecture in Asunción. This iconic building, which is beautifully illuminated at night, serves as the office of the President of Paraguay and it is also the seat of the national government. The president of Paraguay works here but has official residence in the house named Mburuvicha Róga close to Palacio de los López.
The palace was constructed in the mid-19th century, and it stands as a symbol of Paraguay’s political history and architectural grandeur. It was the first president of Paraguay, Carlos Antonio López, who ordered the construction. The palace was built from 1857 and was more or less completed in 1867. Presidents had their office here, and the edifice was also official residence until 1942. Today, you can admire the elegant palace, which is a famous landmark of Asunción.
Manzana de la Rivera is a cultural and historical gem in the heart of Asunción. It is a unique complex consisting of nine restored colonial houses and some new constructions, forming a vibrant cultural center that spans an entire city block. The restoration of the old house of Manzana de la Rivera began in 1991.
There are several noteworthy structures. Casa Viola dates to the mid-18th century, and it stands as a prime example of colonial architecture. It now hosts the Museo Memoria de la Ciudad, which shows the history of Asunción through various exhibits. Casa Clari is from the 1900s and features late Art Nouveau style. It currently operates as a café and art gallery. Casa Clari-Mestre from 1912 and Casa Vertúa from 1898 are also interesting.
Congreso Nacional is the name of Paraguay’s bicameral congress. It consists of the parliament, Parlamento Nacional, which is known as the Chamber of Deputies, and the senate, Cámara de Senadores. The congress complex of buildings is today a blend of historical and modern architectural elements, reflecting Paraguay’s historical development.
The modern part of the complex was constructed from 1990 to its completion in 2003. The building features a grand façade with neoclassical influences, and the interior is spacious with chambers for legislative sessions, offices for lawmakers, and public galleries. The building is a good stop in a tour of the historic center of Asunción.
For a relaxing stroll with picturesque views, head to the Costanera de Asunción, which is a riverside promenade along the Paraguay River and Bahía de Asunción. The Costanera forms a perfect place for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the sunset. The Costanera is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind, offering scenic views of the river and the city skyline. It’s also a great place to experience local life, with various food stalls and recreational activities available along the way.
From the Costanera de Asunción you can enjoy the view of Palacio de los López and many other buildings. And even though you are just a few hundred meters from the heart of the city, you can relax at the sandy beach, Playa de La Costanera. It is along the small bay of Bahía de Asunción.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is a great museum, which features a diverse collection of fine arts, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum provides insight into both Paraguayan and international art scenes, showcasing works from the colonial period to contemporary times.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes was established in 1909, making it one of the oldest museums in Paraguay. The museum showcases collections and temporary exhibitions, and it plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the artistic heritage of Paraguay.
The Panteón Nacional de los Héroes is a national monument dedicated to honoring Paraguay’s heroes. The beautiful building, which was inspired by Les Invalides in Paris, serves as a mausoleum for notable figures in Paraguayan history. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the country’s past through the stories of those interred here. The Panteón is not only a place of remembrance but also a significant site for understanding Paraguay’s journey through history.
Museo del Barro is a popular art museum in Asunción. The museum houses an impressive collection that includes ceramics, textiles, and sculptures, reflecting Paraguay’s rich cultural heritage. Established in 1979, the museum aims to preserve and promote Paraguayan art and culture. It offers a dive into the artistic expressions of the Guaraní people and contemporary Paraguayan artists, making it an essential stop for art lovers.
The Municipal Theater Ignacio A. Pane is a historic and cultural landmark in Asunción. The theater, originally constructed in 1843 during the consulship of Carlos Antonio López and Mariano Roque Alonso, was opened in 1844 and it initially served as the meeting place for the First National Congress. In 1855 the building was repurposed as a theater under the presidency of Carlos Antonio López.
By 1889, the original structure was replaced by a new building, constructed by Catalan businessman Baudilio Alió. This new theater was inaugurated with performances by the Company Orchestra, La Estudiantina Española Figaro, and today, the setting is a blend of neoclassical and modern elements, reflecting its historical style and contemporary use.
The Central Station Railway Museum is a great place for history enthusiasts and railway aficionados. The museum is in the heart of Asunción at the former central railway station of Asunción. The terminal was inaugurated in 1861 as Estación Central del Ferrocarril, and it was constructed as a central part of the development of the railway network in Paraguay. The architecture was inspired by British Victorian style.
With the suspension of regular train services in Paraguay in 1999, the central station was closed. It had valuable historical value, and the government decided to transform the station into a railway museum. It opened in 2002 and shows the history of Paraguay’s railways. For railway fans, there is a lot of interesting memorabilia, and on the platform tracks, you can explore restored passenger and dining carriages.
Plaza Uruguaya is one of the most iconic and historically significant squares in Asunción. It has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It was originally known as Plaza de San Francisco, before the plaza was renamed Plaza de la República Uruguaya in 1885 in honor of Uruguay’s gesture of returning Paraguayan flags captured during the War of the Triple Alliance. This renaming marked the beginning of its transformation into the present public urban space.
The plaza is surrounded by important historical buildings, including the Central Railway Station, which was the first railway station in South America. The former station is today open as a railway museum. The park area of the square is home to statues and monuments like the statue of General José Gervasio Artigas, who was a national hero of Uruguay.
The Botanical Garden and Zoo of Asunción is one of the city’s most popular green areas. The gardens are located to the north of Asunción, and the large park covers an area of 110 hectares. The garden and zoo were established in 1914 by German scientists Karl Fiebrig and his wife, Anna Gertz. The couple had been visiting Paraguay since 1904 to collect plants and insects for European museums, and eventually they deciding to stay in Paraguay.
The botanical garden is home to a diverse collection of native Paraguayan flora. You can enjoy more than 500 species of plants as well as the lush landscapes designed by Anna Gertz, who is also buried in the garden. There are two main walking trails in the park area, the Circuito Mayor at 4.2 km and the Circuito Menor at 2.7 km.
The zoological garden of Asunción is located within the park houses, and it is home to around 70 species of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles, and they primarily represent South American fauna. The zoo was designed to provide animals with environments that were close to natural habitats, and they form a lovely setting for a stroll.
There are other things to see and so in the large parkland. The former residence of President Carlos Antonio López, known as Casa López, is a historical attraction within the park, providing insights into the architectural and cultural heritage of the era. And you can visit the Natural History Museum, which offers exhibits on the region’s flora and fauna.
Mercado 4 is a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. You can also experience local culture and flavors at the market and of course find smalls shops. Whether you’re looking for traditional Paraguayan foods, artists’ goods, or just a lively atmosphere, Mercado 4 offers a genuine window to Asunción’s everyday life.
Asuncion, Paraguay[/caption]
Overview of Asuncion
Asuncion is the capital of Paraguay and a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. It is nestled along the eastern bank of the Paraguay River, where it developed from being one of the oldest modern cities in South America. Founded in 1537, Asuncion has grown from a small colonial outpost into a thriving urban center that serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of Paraguay.
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Congreso Nacional is the name of Paraguay’s bicameral congress. It consists of the parliament, Parlamento Nacional, which is known as the Chamber of Deputies, and the senate, Cámara de Senadores. The congress complex of buildings is today a blend of historical and modern architectural elements, reflecting Paraguay’s historical development.
The modern part of the complex was constructed from 1990 to its completion in 2003. The building features a grand façade with neoclassical influences, and the interior is spacious with chambers for legislative sessions, offices for lawmakers, and public galleries. The building is a good stop in a tour of the historic center of Asunción.
For a relaxing stroll with picturesque views, head to the Costanera de Asunción, which is a riverside promenade along the Paraguay River and Bahía de Asunción. The Costanera forms a perfect place for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the sunset. The Costanera is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind, offering scenic views of the river and the city skyline. It’s also a great place to experience local life, with various food stalls and recreational activities available along the way.
From the Costanera de Asunción you can enjoy the view of Palacio de los López and many other buildings. And even though you are just a few hundred meters from the heart of the city, you can relax at the sandy beach, Playa de La Costanera. It is along the small bay of Bahía de Asunción.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is a great museum, which features a diverse collection of fine arts, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum provides insight into both Paraguayan and international art scenes, showcasing works from the colonial period to contemporary times.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes was established in 1909, making it one of the oldest museums in Paraguay. The museum showcases collections and temporary exhibitions, and it plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the artistic heritage of Paraguay.
The Panteón Nacional de los Héroes is a national monument dedicated to honoring Paraguay’s heroes. The beautiful building, which was inspired by Les Invalides in Paris, serves as a mausoleum for notable figures in Paraguayan history. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the country’s past through the stories of those interred here. The Panteón is not only a place of remembrance but also a significant site for understanding Paraguay’s journey through history.
Museo del Barro is a popular art museum in Asunción. The museum houses an impressive collection that includes ceramics, textiles, and sculptures, reflecting Paraguay’s rich cultural heritage. Established in 1979, the museum aims to preserve and promote Paraguayan art and culture. It offers a dive into the artistic expressions of the Guaraní people and contemporary Paraguayan artists, making it an essential stop for art lovers.
The Municipal Theater Ignacio A. Pane is a historic and cultural landmark in Asunción. The theater, originally constructed in 1843 during the consulship of Carlos Antonio López and Mariano Roque Alonso, was opened in 1844 and it initially served as the meeting place for the First National Congress. In 1855 the building was repurposed as a theater under the presidency of Carlos Antonio López.
By 1889, the original structure was replaced by a new building, constructed by Catalan businessman Baudilio Alió. This new theater was inaugurated with performances by the Company Orchestra, La Estudiantina Española Figaro, and today, the setting is a blend of neoclassical and modern elements, reflecting its historical style and contemporary use.
The Central Station Railway Museum is a great place for history enthusiasts and railway aficionados. The museum is in the heart of Asunción at the former central railway station of Asunción. The terminal was inaugurated in 1861 as Estación Central del Ferrocarril, and it was constructed as a central part of the development of the railway network in Paraguay. The architecture was inspired by British Victorian style.
With the suspension of regular train services in Paraguay in 1999, the central station was closed. It had valuable historical value, and the government decided to transform the station into a railway museum. It opened in 2002 and shows the history of Paraguay’s railways. For railway fans, there is a lot of interesting memorabilia, and on the platform tracks, you can explore restored passenger and dining carriages.
Plaza Uruguaya is one of the most iconic and historically significant squares in Asunción. It has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It was originally known as Plaza de San Francisco, before the plaza was renamed Plaza de la República Uruguaya in 1885 in honor of Uruguay’s gesture of returning Paraguayan flags captured during the War of the Triple Alliance. This renaming marked the beginning of its transformation into the present public urban space.
The plaza is surrounded by important historical buildings, including the Central Railway Station, which was the first railway station in South America. The former station is today open as a railway museum. The park area of the square is home to statues and monuments like the statue of General José Gervasio Artigas, who was a national hero of Uruguay.
The Botanical Garden and Zoo of Asunción is one of the city’s most popular green areas. The gardens are located to the north of Asunción, and the large park covers an area of 110 hectares. The garden and zoo were established in 1914 by German scientists Karl Fiebrig and his wife, Anna Gertz. The couple had been visiting Paraguay since 1904 to collect plants and insects for European museums, and eventually they deciding to stay in Paraguay.
The botanical garden is home to a diverse collection of native Paraguayan flora. You can enjoy more than 500 species of plants as well as the lush landscapes designed by Anna Gertz, who is also buried in the garden. There are two main walking trails in the park area, the Circuito Mayor at 4.2 km and the Circuito Menor at 2.7 km.
The zoological garden of Asunción is located within the park houses, and it is home to around 70 species of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles, and they primarily represent South American fauna. The zoo was designed to provide animals with environments that were close to natural habitats, and they form a lovely setting for a stroll.
There are other things to see and so in the large parkland. The former residence of President Carlos Antonio López, known as Casa López, is a historical attraction within the park, providing insights into the architectural and cultural heritage of the era. And you can visit the Natural History Museum, which offers exhibits on the region’s flora and fauna.
Mercado 4 is a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. You can also experience local culture and flavors at the market and of course find smalls shops. Whether you’re looking for traditional Paraguayan foods, artists’ goods, or just a lively atmosphere, Mercado 4 offers a genuine window to Asunción’s everyday life.
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