Palacio de los López
Asunción
Palacio de los López, officially known as the Palacio de Gobierno, is a neoclassical manor located in the heart of Asunción, Paraguay. Overlooking Asunción Bay, it serves as the workplace of the President of Paraguay and the seat of the national government. Construction began in 1857 under English architect Alonso Taylor by order of Carlos Antonio López, Paraguay's first constitutional president. The palace was intended as a dynastic residence for López's son, General Francisco Solano López, though he never lived there. The building features materials sourced from various regions of Paraguay, including stones, woods, bricks, and iron, combined with European decorative elements such as bronze statuettes and Paris-imported furniture. The palace endured damage and looting during the War of the Triple Alliance and subsequent occupation by allied forces, leaving it derelict until restoration efforts in the late 19th century. It was the official presidential residence until the mid-20th century before the executive residence moved to Mburuvicha Róga. Today, the Palacio de los López remains a prominent symbol of Paraguayan governance and history, illuminated beautifully at night to showcase its architectural features.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore the palace during daylight hours to fully appreciate its neoclassical architecture and views over Asunción Bay. While the palace itself is a working government building with limited public access, special events such as presidential inaugurations may offer unique viewing opportunities. It is recommended to check official schedules and obtain any necessary permissions in advance. Evening visits allow for impressive views of the palace's illuminated façade. No specific ticketing is generally required for viewing from the exterior.
Faits intéressants
- •The palace was designed by English architect Alonso Taylor.
- •Materials for construction were sourced from multiple Paraguayan regions, including stones from Emboscada and Altos, and iron from Ybycuí.
- •Bronze statuettes and furniture were imported from Paris to decorate the palace.
- •The palace was damaged and looted during the War of the Triple Alliance and allied occupation.
- •It was the official presidential residence until 1942, after which the residence moved to Mburuvicha Róga.
- •The building is illuminated at night, highlighting its neoclassical architecture and colors.
Histoire
Construction of Palacio de los López started in 1857, commissioned by President Carlos Antonio López to establish a presidential palace and dynastic seat.
It was substantially completed by 1867 but suffered damage during the War of the Triple Alliance when allied forces occupied Asunción and used the palace as a military quarters.
Restoration and completion resumed in the 1890s under President Juan Bautista Egusquiza, who became the first to reside there officially.
The palace served as the presidential residence until 1942, when the official residence moved to Mburuvicha Róga.
Throughout the 20th century, it remained the seat of government, including during the dictatorship of Alfredo Stroessner, and continues to serve this role today.
Guide du lieu
Main Facade and Exterior1857-1867
The palace’s neoclassical facade faces Asunción Bay, featuring symmetrical design, columns, and decorative elements sourced from European artists. The illuminated exterior at night is a highlight for visitors.
Presidential Halls and Chambers1860s
Inside the palace are grand halls decorated with large mirrors and bronze statuettes imported from Paris, reflecting the 19th-century European influence on Paraguayan architecture and culture.
Contact
Téléphone: (021) 414 0000