The Municipality of Asunción, through its Zonal Markets Directorate, is promoting a new cultural and urban intervention at the municipality-owned Mercado 4. The space will be incorporating artistic expressions within its building structure. This work is part of a comprehensive strategy for the recovery, beautification, and revitalisation of this emblematic commercial centre of the capital.
Within this framework, a large-format mural is currently being painted on the ground floor of the municipal building. This will be specifically in the traditional juice bar area (where juices are made), one of the most representative areas of Mercado 4. The work is being carried out by renowned folk artist Joseph Helmann, a leading figure in urban art and graffiti. He recently represented Paraguay in international exhibitions, including presentations in Chile.
Market’s urban identity
The director of Mercado 4 and the municipal zonal markets, Alejandro Buzó, explained that this initiative is part of a management strategy by the city government. Led by Mayor Luis Bello, the porject seeks to strengthen the market’s urban identity. “We continue working on the restoration and beautification of public spaces within Mercado 4. In addition to infrastructure improvements and the revitalisation of certain areas, we are now incorporating urban art. We are convinced that Mercado 4 is an urban heritage site of Asunción and a quintessential landmark of city life,” Buzó states.
Buzó emphasised that the intervention is not limited to aesthetics. The aim is to generate a deeper transformation in the dynamics of the area. In this regard, he indicated that the juice bar area is being prepared to offer better conditions for both workers and visitors. “We are proposing not only aesthetic and infrastructural improvements. We are also going to offer a different sales dynamic, where people can enjoy juices, coffee, and snacks in more dignified and pleasant spaces,” he states.
The director also announced plans to enhance the nighttime aspect of this market area. The aim is to make it an attractive option for tourists and locals alike. “We want it to be a place where people can come in the late afternoon or evening to eat or socialise, breaking with the market’s conventional dynamics and offering a different experience in such an important part of the capital,” he adds.
Response to the revitalisation project
Regarding the reception of this proposal for the revitalisation, Buzó highlights the positive response from both vendors and visitors. “The work just began at night and is already having a positive impact. The mural brings joy and value to people’s daily work and contributes to the beautification of the surroundings. We firmly believe that a well-maintained and valued space lifts the spirits of those who work there and creates a more dignified environment,” he says. Buzó is also referring to the importance of preventing the deterioration of public spaces through ongoing maintenance.
The director also emphasised that the mural’s creation is possible thanks to a self-managed effort and community collaboration. “Our resources are extremely limited. Everything we are doing is thanks to the support of the permit holders themselves, municipal officials, merchants, and citizens who believe in this initiative. We are not handling cash, but rather receiving materials and support based on clear and transparent projects,” he explains.
Photo exhibition
As part of the activities planned for this revitalisation project, Buzó announced a photography exhibition during the first week of March. This is part of initiatives aimed at women’s economic empowerment. The exhibition will be promoted in conjunction with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and will seek to highlight the fundamental role of women within Mercado 4 and the surrounding markets.
“Mercado 4 is an economic and productive hub where a very high percentage of the vendors are women. They are the ones who sustain the daily work and economic development of these spaces. That is why we believe it is essential to highlight their contribution. We also belive in strengthening their role through alliances with international organisations and universities,” says Buzó.
Central point of economic activity
Finally, the director gave a positive assessment of the commercial activity recorded at the end of last year. He highlighted the advance planning and the order achieved during the peak days. “More than 30,000 people visited Mercado 4 between the afternoon of 5 January and the early morning of 6 January. There was organisation, foresight, and a significant turnout, which demonstrates that the market continues to be a central point of the economy and social life of Asunción,” he concluded.
With these actions, the Municipality of Asunción reaffirms its commitment to the enhancement of Mercado 4. The authorities are integrating culture, social inclusion and economic development in one of the city’s most emblematic spaces.
