The San Buenaventura Church of Yaguarón has stood for more than three centuries. The church is one of the most remarkable examples of Guaraní Baroque and a cornerstone of Paraguay’s spiritual identity. Now, the temple is about to undergo its first comprehensive restoration. This historic intervention marks a defining moment in the safeguarding of national heritage. The renewal is led by the Government of Paraguay through the Tekorenda (meaning “that place of life”, in Guaraní language) Programme.
Located about 52 kilometres south of Asunción, Yaguarón lies at the foot of its namesake hill in the department of Paraguarí. The town is renowned for its rich colonial legacy, and deep-rooted cultural traditions, which blend indigenous and European influences.
San Buenaventura Church: Faith, art, and history
Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, the San Buenaventura Church stands as a living testimony to the artistic and cultural synthesis that shaped Paraguay. Also, it is listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List. Therefore, the temple embodies the fusion of European religious architecture and indigenous craftsmanship.
“The San Buenaventura Church is far more than an architectural jewel. It is a testament to the meeting of faith, indigenous art, and the mestizo identity that gave rise to our nation,” stated Paraguayan President Santiago Peña during the announcement of the restoration works.
With an investment of Gs. 7.5 billion (approximately US$1.06 million), the project brings together Paraguayan and international specialists. Local craftsmen support the initiative, helping to ensure that conservation skills remain within the community. The restoration represents a renewal of a bridge between the past and the collective memory of the Paraguayan people.
Tekorenda: Safeguarding Paraguay’s heritage
The Tekorenda Programme: Urgent Safeguarding of Paraguay’s Tangible Cultural Heritage is a government-led initiative. The programme aims to protect and revitalise the nation’s most significant historical sites. Driven by Paraguay’s Secretariat of Culture, Tekorenda integrates architectural restoration with community participation, education, and intergenerational knowledge exchange.
Yaguarón, according to President Peña, was the inspiration behind the programme itself. “Tekorenda was created to urgently protect the most precious elements of our history and today, that dream begins to take shape.”
The programme will begin with eight heritage sites across Paraguay. Among them is the Former Railway Station of San Salvador in Guairá. In addition, it includes the San Atanasio de Isla Umbú Temple in Ñeembucú and the San Buenaventura de Yaguarón Church in Paraguarí. Furthermore, the Atyrá Church in Cordillera and the Church of San Ignacio Guasu in Misiones will also be restored.
Meanwhile, the Oratorio Tupasy Ykua in Itapúa forms part of the initiative. Finally, the Church of San Pedro Apóstol de Mbocayaty del Yhaguy in Cordillera and the Parish Church of Santa Rosa de Lima in Misiones complete the list of sites selected for this first phase.
Looking at the future
The restoration of San Buenaventura transcends the preservation of a building; it embodies the reaffirmation of Paraguay’s identity and its commitment to cultural continuity. Through collective effort, institutional collaboration, and the wisdom of tradition, the people of Yaguarón are preparing to restore their iconic temple to its former splendour as a symbol of faith, resilience, and the living heritage of the Guaraní Baroque.
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