Traditional vendors from La Recova temporarily move to the ground floor of the Asunción Port Cultural Centre. The move allows La Recova restorations to continue while supporting the merchants’ daily activities. Meanwhile, the National Secretariat of Culture (SNC) coordinates the relocation through the Tekorenda Programme, which supports the restoration and protection of Paraguay’s historic heritage sites.
The temporary space operates from Monday to Saturday, between 08:00 and 18:00. Visitors can meet the vendors and explore products made by artisans across Paraguay. In addition, the arrangement keeps the commercial activity connected to the city centre. As a result, residents and visitors can support the vendors during the restoration period.
A temporary home near the port
The relocation also creates a renewed connection between La Recova and Asunción’s historic port area. The building began construction in 1861 under the name Nueva Aduana de la Rivera. At the time, its history closely connected it with people, goods and services around the port. Later, the arrival of the railway further strengthened the area’s commercial importance.
Over time, La Recova developed an identity as a commercial and cultural landmark. Its shops became associated with Paraguayan crafts and traditional products. Today, the building remains among the oldest surviving heritage complexes in the former port area. Therefore, its vendors continue an important tradition while La recova restorations take place around them.
Restoring a historic landmark
The current restoration focuses on La Recova’s public corridors and architectural features. Workers are restoring façades, galleries, floors, plasterwork, mouldings and other historic elements. Furthermore, the project introduces improvements to lighting and accessibility throughout the surrounding area. These measures look to improve the building and preserve its architectural character and public function.
At the same time, the restoration addresses deterioration while keeping La Recova active commercially. The project also protects the relationship between the building, its vendors and the community. By relocating the merchants temporarily, authorities can advance the works without stopping their businesses. Consequently, the vendors can continue serving customers throughout the restoration period.
La recova restorations: a part of the Tekorenda Programme
The restoration forms part of the Tekorenda Programme, which safeguards Paraguay’s material cultural heritage. The Government of Paraguay coordinates the initiative through the National Secretariat of Culture. In addition, the programme brings together ITAIPU Binacional, the ITAIPU Technology Park, CAF and the United Nations Development Programme.
Tekorenda promotes the recovery and sustainability of historically significant heritage sites across Paraguay. Its first stage includes an initial investment of US$5 million for eight heritage locations. Moreover, the programme encourages community participation alongside conservation and educational initiatives. For La Recova, the temporary relocation supports preservation and the vendors’ commercial tradition.
For now, La Recova’s familiar vendors welcome customers from their temporary home at the port. Their presence keeps a longstanding tradition visible while the historic building receives renewed attention. Visitors can support the merchants by exploring their products during the restoration period. Meanwhile, restoration works continue with the focus of preserving La Recova for future generations.
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