Asunción’s Historic Centre, according to Paraguay’s Ministry of Tourism, is set to become a sustainable and globally renowned tourist destination through a comprehensive revitalisation strategy led by the Ministry in collaboration with various partners. Recently, the Minister of Tourism Angie Duarte met with acting Mayor of Asunción, Luis Bello. The goal of this coordinated joint action was to strengthen the tourism, cultural, and urban development of Asunción’s historic heart.
With the partnership, the National Secretariat of Tourism (Senatur) and the Municipality of Asunción are committing themselves to a sustainable, and innovative tourism model. This would position Paraguay’s capital as an increasingly attractive cultural destination.
The revitalisation of San Jerónimo Hill
During the meeting, San Jerónimo Hill (Loma San Jerónimo) was mentioned. The “Revitalisation of San Jerónimo Hill” stands out as a flagship project, developed with active community participation. Workshops, artistic interventions on staircases and facades, and initiatives promoting entrepreneurship among women and youth are being carried out, strengthening the neighborhood’s cultural identity.
The historic Turista Róga building, current headquarters of Senatur, will be valued as an icon of the economic rebirth of Asunción after the War of the Triple Alliance. Located on Palma street between Alberdi and 14 de Mayo streets, the building houses exhibitions of Paraguayan art and crafts and is designed as an educational and tourist center that preserves urban memory.
Promotion of Paseo de los Yuyos in Mercado 4
Additionally, the promotion of Paseo de los Yuyos in Mercado 4 was discussed to dynamise this area of Asunción. Thisis an area of the city where the aim is to strengthen tourism, as it is out of Asunción’s traditional touristic zone. The progress of “Smart Tourist Destination” and the continuity of the Tourism Security Plan were discussed as well. These talks were made through agreements with the Ministry of the Interior and the National Police.
Minister Duarte and Mayor Bello also discussed initiatives focused on the maintenance and beautification of public spaces. The two also held talks for joint actions within the framework of the celebrations for the 500th anniversary of Asunción. Furthermore, they both agreed on the enhancement of emblematic sites such as the Paseo de la Guarania and the Turista Róga Costanera.
On the Costanera, the Róga Tourist Interpretation Center offers an immersive experience that combines history, culture, and technology. Highlights include the piano-shaped water instrument that reproduces the Guarania Paraguaýpe, and a viewpoint with a spyglass oriented to Punta Karapã, home of the teacher José Asunción Flores.
Revamping the city centre to strengthen tourism
In partnership with the Ministry of Public Work and the city of Asunción, the city centre will be totally revamped. The cost is of US$11 Million at the moment, as it is in an early stage. First phase will focus on main squares of Asunción’s historic heart. The second phase will focus on the Old Railway Station, close to Plaza Uruguaya. There is no timetable yet for these two parts of the project. Companies are still applying for contracts.
In October 2025, the “Tax Balance Project” has been approved by the municipality. The council is looking for projects to stimulate investment in this geographical area. They hope to substantially reduce property taxes, aiming to rejuvenate the historic district and strengthen tourism.
