In the heart of downtown Asunción stands the National Pantheon of the Heroes, one of Paraguay’s most important landmarks. Originally designed in the 1860s by Italian architect Alessandro Ravizza, construction was interrupted by the War of the Triple Alliance and only completed decades later, inaugurated in 1936. The neoclassical façade with its dome and columns gives it a solemn, elegant presence on Plaza de los Héroes.
Inside rest the remains of Paraguay’s most revered figures, including Marshal Francisco Solano López, other national leaders, and unknown soldiers. It serves both as a mausoleum and a symbol of remembrance.
A highlight for visitors is the changing of the guard ceremony, performed by the Honor Guard. It’s dignified and formal — though not as elaborate as the spectacles at Buckingham Palace or similar sites — it adds a sense of living tradition to the memorial.
Notes
The site is compact — 20–30 minutes is enough to take it in.
The guard change usually happens every couple of hours, we were lucky to get but not sure of the exact schedule
Great photo opportunities: the white dome, flag against the sky, stained glass, and the guards at attention all make striking images.
It is good to the stop here with a walk to the nearby Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza Uruguaya, or nearby historic streets.