- Address: Juan E. O'Leary, Asunción, Paraguay
- Phone: +595 21 442 448
- Official website: www.mca.gov.py
- E-mail: directoriocultural@gmail.com
- Opening hours: 7:00 - 22:00
Asuncion is the "heart" of the amazing state of Paraguay and at the same time one of the smallest capitals of South America. In this city there are no world famous attractions , luxurious white beaches or significant monuments of architecture, but here you can get to know the true Paraguay and its special charm. One of the most interesting places to visit in Asunción is the center of Manzana de la Riviera, which is the subject of this article.
Historical facts
Manzana de la Riviera is the cultural center of Asuncion, located in the north-east of the city, opposite the Government House. Today it is a popular tourist attraction, however it was not always so.
In 1989, it was planned to create a new park in this place. City residents were against such a decision of the authorities, and then the local architecture students opened a campaign to preserve one of the most important metropolitan areas. In 1991, began to perform restoration work, which lasted for several years, after which the first director of the new center was the architect Carlos Colombino.
What to see?
Each of the houses that make up the Manzana de la Riviera complex is interesting in its own way and is of considerable interest to foreign travelers. Consider the most popular:
- Viola's house. Built in 1750-1758, this building is today considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of typical colonial architecture. A special feature of the structure is a beautiful tiled roof. Today, in the house of Viola is the Museum of the Memory of the City (Museo Memoria de la Ciudad), which presents various texts, maps and other items that tell the story of Asuncion from its foundation to the present day. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 - 21:00, Sat-Sun 10:00 - 20:00.
- Clary's house. The building was built next door to the House of Viola in the early 20th century. in the late modern style. Now there is a wonderful café "Casa Clary", where you can taste dishes of Paraguayan cuisine . In addition, not so long ago, another room was added to the house, where the art gallery is located. Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 8:00 to 21:00, on weekends - from 10:00 to 20:00.
- The house of Clary Mestre. One of the most important buildings of the quarter. It was built in neoclassical style in 1912 and originally had a zinc roof, which as a result was decided to replace the tiled roof. Today this room is used as an auditorium: it often hosts concerts, dance shows, theater performances and other events. The Clar Mestre House is open every day from 9:00 to 19:00.
- The house of Wertua. This is the only 2-storey building in the whole complex, which was built only 20 years ago. On the top floor there is a confectionery of the same name, in which you can treat yourself to fresh pastries and delicious desserts. Works from 9:00 to 20:00.
- House Castelvie. The building was built in 1804 and is named after former vice-premier Asuncion Jose Castelvi. On its territory there are 2 exhibition halls, a city library, a children's playroom and a large garden that is part of the urban area. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 - 13.30, Sat-Sun 10:00 - 19:00.
- Houses of Sierra I and Sierra II. According to many historians, in the past, both buildings were part of one large mansion. Today, here is a municipal video library, which stores artistic and documentary films for cultural and educational topics, specifically designed for students. Opening hours of the video library: from 12:00 to 17:30 on weekdays.
Useful information for tourists
Manzana de la Riviera is one of the most visited cultural and historical sights not only of Asuncion, but of all of Paraguay. You can get here, depending on personal preferences, in several ways:
- by public transport , using bus number 35;
- independently, having preliminary taken car for rent or having ordered a taxi.