10 Things to Do in Palacio de los López (Palace of the López) Asunción Paraguay
As Paraguay’s oldest and grandest palace, the Palacio de los López in Asunción is a must-see for travelers. Constructed in 1857, the palace was the official residence of the López family, the country’s ruling dynasty from 1844 to 1870. Today, the palace is open to the public and is a popular destination for visitors of Asunción. Here are 10 things to do in the Palacio de los López.
1. Take a Tour
The best way to explore the Palacio de los López is to take a guided tour. The palace is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day, and guided tours are available in both Spanish and English. The tour will take you through the palace’s many rooms, including the grand ballroom, the bedrooms, and the library.
2. Visit the Chapel
The palace’s chapel is a must-see for visitors. The chapel is decorated with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate tile work. The chapel is also home to a large painting of the Virgin Mary, which is said to have been painted by the López family.
3. Explore the Gardens
The Palacio de los López is surrounded by lush gardens. The gardens are filled with exotic plants and flowers, as well as a variety of birds and other wildlife. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens or explore the many pathways and fountains.
4. See the Art Collection
The palace is home to a large collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The collection includes works by some of Paraguay’s most famous artists, such as Juan de Dios Filiberto and Alfredo Guggiari.
5. Attend a Concert
The palace’s grand ballroom is occasionally used for concerts and other performances. Check the palace’s website for upcoming events and tickets.
6. Visit the Museum
The Palacio de los López is home to a small museum that houses artifacts from the López family’s reign. The museum also contains a large collection of books and documents related to Paraguay’s history.
7. Take a Cooking Class
The palace offers cooking classes for visitors who want to learn about traditional Paraguayan cuisine. The classes are held in the palace’s kitchen and include a tour of the kitchen and a lesson on how to make traditional dishes.
8. Shop for Souvenirs
The palace has a small gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and other items. The shop sells items such as postcards, books, and jewelry.
9. Enjoy a Meal
The palace’s restaurant serves traditional Paraguayan dishes as well as international cuisine. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and reservations are recommended.
10. Take a Photo
The Palacio de los López is a beautiful building and the perfect backdrop for a photo. Visitors can take pictures of the palace’s exterior or explore the gardens for the perfect shot.
The Palacio de los López is a must-see for anyone visiting Asunción. With its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and fascinating history, the palace is sure to be a memorable experience.