National Pantheon of Heroes — Attraction in Asuncion

In the heart of downtown Asunción stands the National Pantheon of the Heroes, one of Paraguay’s most important landmarks. Originally designed in the 1860s by Italian architect Alessandro Ravizza, construction was interrupted by the War of the Triple Alliance and only completed decades later, inaugurated in 1936. The neoclassical façade with its dome and columns gives it a solemn, elegant presence on Plaza de los Héroes.

Inside rest the remains of Paraguay’s most revered figures, including Marshal Francisco Solano López, other national leaders, and unknown soldiers. It serves both as a mausoleum and a symbol of remembrance.

A highlight for visitors is the changing of the guard ceremony, performed by the Honor Guard. It’s dignified and formal — though not as elaborate as the spectacles at Buckingham Palace or similar sites — it adds a sense of living tradition to the memorial.

Notes

The site is compact — 20–30 minutes is enough to take it in.

The guard change usually happens every couple of hours, we were lucky to get but not sure of the exact schedule

Great photo opportunities: the white dome, flag against the sky, stained glass, and the guards at attention all make striking images.

It is good to the stop here with a walk to the nearby Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza Uruguaya, or nearby...

The National Pantheon of Heroes, a historic edifice nestled in the heart of downtown Asuncion, is a must-visit destination. It beckons you to explore the rich tapestry of Paraguayan history, with a plethora of notable figures interred within its cemetery-chapel, including luminaries such as Mariscal Lopez and Mariscal Estigarribia. The best part? Admission is entirely free.

As you approach this venerable institution, you'll invariably encounter two sentinels, steadfastly guarding its entrance. During my visit, I was fortunate to witness a changing of the guard, a ceremonious display of military precision and respect. It was a captivating experience that added depth to my visit.

For many years, the monument lay shrouded in mystery, often closed to the public due to either ongoing renovations or the shadow cast by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, during my decade-long sojourn in Paraguay, the opportunity to step inside had eluded me. Now, I can genuinely say I've savored the delight of this...

Fantastic building architecturally and spiritually. We visited on Sunday morning when a Catholic Mass was wrapping up. Very nice. Here the heroes of Paraguay from the mid 1800’s to about 1940’s are honored and in most cases interred. Presidents, Generals, a symbolic war hero is featured, one artist (musician and poet), and some statues to Catholic clergy e.g. bishops. It’s a beautiful building, to us one of the best places to visit in Paraguay as one gets some history and the vibe and spirit of Paraguay’s independence and importance as a country. It’s free, don’t miss this place. Includes the tomb of the first President of the Republic who was the gentleman behind the famous term “Paraguay soup” as a name for bread, something I shall never...