The Spanish Cultural Centre (Centro Cultural de España) in Asunción will reopen its doors on 19 April 2026. The event celebrates its 50th anniversary and marks a significant milestone in Paraguay’s cultural landscape. Under the motto “Culture and Future”, the celebration commemorates five decades of activity. It also signals a renewed commitment to cultural development and international collaboration.
Founded in 1976, the centre, historically known as the Juan de Salazar, or “Juande” became the first Spanish cultural centre abroad and the origin of the wider network led by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID). Today, that network includes 16 centres across Latin America and Africa. Over the years, the institution has established itself as a key platform for artistic expression, critical thinking, and cultural dialogue between Paraguay and Spain.
A renewed space for culture and community
Following an extensive refurbishment process, the Spanish Cultural Centre in Asunción now presents updated facilities designed to meet contemporary cultural demands. The renovation includes a fully modernised auditorium and exhibition spaces. It also features a new façade inspired by the centenary of Spanish artist Josefina Plá’s arrival in Paraguay. Overall, the upgrades aim to enhance both functionality and cultural engagement.
Additionally, the centre has incorporated sustainable and community-focused features. A vertical garden introduces elements of urban nature, while an outdoor parklet reimagines the entrance area as a semi-pedestrian space, encouraging residents to engage more actively with the venue. Meanwhile, a newly created Laboratory space aims to foster experimentation, creativity, and innovation within the local cultural sector. As a result, the reopening represents more than a physical transformation. It reflects an evolving vision of culture as a driver of social development and collective participation.
A programme bridging past, present, and future
The anniversary celebration will begin at 19:00 with the official reopening, including the inauguration of the new façade and welcome remarks. At 19:30, visitors will be invited to explore the renovated facilities and attend the opening of the installation Orear: New Winds to Imagine the Future.
Throughout the evening, parallel activities will highlight the centre’s multidisciplinary approach. The Las Sinsombrero Library will host a textile exhibition by artist Lides Samudio, showcasing innovative uses of the traditional ao po’í a traditional Paraguayan textile technique. In addition, a symbolic time capsule ceremony and the inauguration of the vertical garden will take place. The new Laboratory space will also be presented through a live demonstration, offering insight into its role as a hub for experimentation and creative production. Meanwhile, a special recording of the radio programme “El Ojo Crítico” will also take place.
The evening will conclude at 21:00 with the premiere of the centre’s 50th anniversary soundtrack, followed by a gastronomic experience featuring paella prepared by chef Daniel Marco Arco. Live performances by Purahéi Soul and the Nacho Mastretta Band will close the celebration. All activities are open to the public and free of charge.
Also read: A Guide To Cultural Events At Multipurpose Theatres In Asunción
