Palacio de los López (Government Palace)

The Palacio de los López, also known as the Government Palace, is the official seat of the Executive Power of the Republic of Paraguay and one of the most beautiful and imposing buildings in South America. Built between 1857 and 1867 under the commission of President Carlos Antonio López and completed during the government of his son Francisco Solano López, the palace was designed in a neoclassical style with notable Palladian influences. Its elegant white facade, crowned with a central dome and flanked by Corinthian columns, contrasts majestically with the waters of the Paraguay River that wash before it. Its interior houses magnificent state rooms decorated with historical paintings, gilded moldings, mirrors, tapestries, French-style furniture and bronze ornaments. The palace is also the stage for the main state ceremonial acts. While it is the official residence of the president, the Municipality of Asunción organizes guided tours called 'Secretos del Palacio' (Secrets of the Palace), usually on Sundays, with very limited spots and prior registration required. For foreign travelers, the Palacio de los López is simply one of the most spectacular architectural landmarks on the continent.