This article is an entry for The Asunción Times’ writing competition 2024, by Maria Celeste Pereira Cubilla. To help this article win, like and comment!
When I think of Asunción, my mind instantly travels to a special place that marked my childhood: the House of Independence. This little corner, tucked away on the bustling 14 de Mayo Street, is not only a symbol of Paraguayan history but also holds some of my most cherished memories.
I clearly remember those days when I would accompany my father to his office, right across from the house. While he worked, my siblings and I eagerly awaited the moment when he would allow us to cross the street and explore that fascinating place. From the outside, the House of Independence seemed like a mysterious site, with its unique alleyway—the only one of its kind in the city—almost like a gateway to the past.
Our guide on this adventure, the historian Pusineri Scala, always greeted us with a warm smile and contagious enthusiasm. With passion, he led us through the rooms where, centuries ago, the heroes of Paraguay’s independence secretly gathered, plotting the movement that would give birth to our free country. His stories not only taught us about the 14th and 15th of May but also transported us to that time of courage and hope.
The House of Independence is not just a museum; it is a living witness to the dreams and sacrifices of those who fought for a sovereign Paraguay. It is a place that invites reflection on our past and inspires us to build a better future.
Today, as I share these memories, I want to invite the world to discover this hidden gem in the heart of Asunción. The House of Independence is more than a tourist attraction; it is an open door to history, an opportunity to connect with the roots of a people who never stopped fighting for their freedom.
If you ever find yourself on 14 de Mayo Street, don’t hesitate to stop and step into this iconic house. Let its walls speak to you, let the passion of its guides captivate you, and let the story of Paraguay inspire you as much as it inspired me as a child. Asunción, with its rich history and welcoming people, awaits you with open arms.
