Concert halls Asunción & Area

The "House of the Harp", in Guarani, is a music conservatory recognized by the Paraguayan Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC). It was founded by a family of musicians, the Pedersens. The harp is taught here, with private and group lessons for all levels, from the age of three. For those staying in Asunción for a while, this may be an opportunity to start studying Paraguay's national instrument. Violin lessons are also available. Concerts and cultural events are organized from time to time.

Since 2013, the "Manzana de la Rivera" cultural centre has also been named after Carlos Colombino, the plastic artist, architect and writer who created the cultural centre. In this beautiful architectural complex, made up of nine houses from different periods, the municipality's cultural department regularly presents dance, theatre and music performances and exhibitions of paintings, sculptures and photographs. There is also a municipal library.

La Alianza Francesa is located 5 minutes from Plaza Uruguaya. This non-profit association, which is financed mainly by French language courses (around 1,200 students each year in Asunción), is France's cultural showcase in Paraguay. It promotes cultural diversity through activities and festivals open to all types of public: cinema, concerts, exhibitions, etc. A media library and a 240-seat theater, the Salle Molière. For the program, visit facebook.com/AlianzaFrancesaAsu.

This independent publisher and bookshop is located just behind the Alliance française, in the historic center. It sells books for children and adults, including a good selection of French-language books that expatriates will love (if they can't find what they're looking for in the Alliance library). Fausto offers reading and creative writing workshops, book launches, cinema, theater, dance and various exhibitions. A pleasant patio for a drink at La Galette next door.

This cultural center, run by the Spanish Embassy, has become an essential part of the capital's cultural life. Every evening, it presents conferences and quality shows: dance, theater (in Spanish or Guarani), visual arts, independent cinema, music, workshops for children and adults, photography and painting exhibitions... A place for debate, creation and freedom, with a resolutely committed program. And it's all free!