Templo Masónico de la calle Palma
An early 20th-century building on Calle Palma, open to the public since 2009 and restored in 2018.
What it is
The temple of the Gran Logia Simbólica del Paraguay stands on Calle Palma, between Montevideo and Colón streets, right downtown. It is considered one of the most beautiful masonic temples in the Americas and is part of the city's historic heritage. For over a century access was reserved for members; since 2009 it has been open to the public. Its civic history is also notable: during the 1918 Spanish flu it worked as an assistance centre, and in the Chaco War (1932–1935) it served as a blood bank.
What to see and do
- A historic masonic temple open to the public
- Its role during the Spanish flu and the Chaco War
- Calle Palma, axis of the historic centre, at the doorstep
Did you know…?
It was partly financed with 50 % of the collections from masonic meetings, plus donations and bonds.
It remains an active centre of Paraguayan freemasonry.
History
The plot was acquired in 1897 and the deed signed in 1899. Works started after an internal tender in 1902, with a design by José Vilá and architecture by Ricardo Lloret. It was received on 9 February 1903 and inaugurated on 2 May 1904. It first opened to the public on 10 October 2009 and reopened on 12 June 2018 after restoration.
Tips
- It is not a permanent museum: confirm when it can be visited and whether a guide is offered.
- Combine it with a walk along Calle Palma.
Check opening hours before you go. Visits may need prior arrangement.
Best time: Weekday mornings.
Activities
Festivals and events here
International Jazz Day in Asunción
Jazz concerts at cultural centers and stages around the capital to celebrate the genre’s world day.
MusicAsunción, Asunción (Distrito Capital)May→ JunAsunción International Book Fair (FIL)
Ten days of books, authors and language: the country’s great literary festival, with free entry and a guest country.
CulturalAsunción, Asunción (Distrito Capital)FeaturedMayIndependence Days (May 14 and 15)
Two public holidays for the 1811 independence: flags, ceremonies, sopa paraguaya and chipa guasu all over the country.
CulturalAsunción, Asunción (Distrito Capital)AugAugust 1: National Carrulim Day
On the first day of August people drink carrulim—cane liquor, rue and lemon—to ward off the ills of the most dreaded month.
TraditionAsunción y todo el país, VariosAugAugust 15: Founding of Asunción and Feast of Our Lady of the Assumption
The birthday of the Mother of Cities coincides with the feast of its patron saint: Mass at the Cathedral, a public holiday and cultural events.
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Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 3 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.