![Manzana de la Rivera (Block of the River Cultural Center), Asuncion](/img/gd_attr/46969.jpg)
Manzana de la Rivera (Block of the River Cultural Center), Asuncion
The Block of the River Cultural Center in Asunción is a remarkable urban project that seamlessly integrates nine historic houses into a vibrant cultural hub. This innovative approach not only preserves the city's architectural heritage but also creates a dynamic space for cultural activities. Among the buildings, the oldest is the Viola House, dating back to 1764. Often referred to simply as "La Manzana" by locals, this house functions as the City Memory Museum. It offers visitors a glimpse into Asunción's past through its diverse exhibits, which include historical texts, maps, and artifacts.
Adjacent to the Viola House is the Emasa House, a former customs office now repurposed as La Galería, the cultural center’s art gallery. This space showcases a variety of visual arts, providing a platform for local and international artists to display their work. The newest addition to the complex is the Clari House, built in 1914 in the art nouveau style. This charming café serves as a gathering place for visitors to enjoy refreshments while soaking in the artistic and historical atmosphere of the cultural center.
The Block of the River is a model of how historical preservation can be harmoniously blended with modern cultural needs. Visitors can explore the historical significance of each building and appreciate the city’s artistic vibrancy in this thoughtfully curated space.
Adjacent to the Viola House is the Emasa House, a former customs office now repurposed as La Galería, the cultural center’s art gallery. This space showcases a variety of visual arts, providing a platform for local and international artists to display their work. The newest addition to the complex is the Clari House, built in 1914 in the art nouveau style. This charming café serves as a gathering place for visitors to enjoy refreshments while soaking in the artistic and historical atmosphere of the cultural center.
The Block of the River is a model of how historical preservation can be harmoniously blended with modern cultural needs. Visitors can explore the historical significance of each building and appreciate the city’s artistic vibrancy in this thoughtfully curated space.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Asuncion. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Manzana de la Rivera (Block of the River Cultural Center) on Map
Sight Name: Manzana de la Rivera (Block of the River Cultural Center)
Sight Location: Asuncion, Paraguay (See walking tours in Asuncion)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Asuncion, Paraguay (See walking tours in Asuncion)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Asuncion, Paraguay
Create Your Own Walk in Asuncion
Creating your own self-guided walk in Asuncion is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Asuncion Introduction Walking Tour
Sitting proudly on the eastern bank of the mighty Paraguay River is the vibrant capital of Paraguay, Asunción.
Established in 1537 by the Spanish explorer Juan de Salazar y Espinosa, this city is one of the oldest in South America. Its official name reads "Nuestra Señora de la Asunción" which means “Our Lady of the Assumption.” The fort that preceded the city was founded on... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Established in 1537 by the Spanish explorer Juan de Salazar y Espinosa, this city is one of the oldest in South America. Its official name reads "Nuestra Señora de la Asunción" which means “Our Lady of the Assumption.” The fort that preceded the city was founded on... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles