Casa Castelvi (Castelvi House), Asuncion

Once known as Casa Serra, the Castelví House is one of Asunción’s enduring symbols of colonial heritage. Built in 1804 by Catalan-born José Castelví, who served as deputy mayor of the city, the house stands as a rare pre-Franciscan example of colonial architecture in Paraguay. Set back 15 meters from the street, the building preserves its original doors, windows, iron railings, and part of its colonial flooring—remarkable survivals that evoke the atmosphere of early 19th-century Asunción.

The house’s transformation over time has not erased its historical character. What was once a walled-off private garden has now been opened to the city, integrating the green space into the urban fabric. This outdoor area, now named Patio Arecayá in memory of the Arecayá Indian rebellion, hosts public and cultural events that make the site more than just a preserved monument—it is a living part of the city.

Today, Castelví House functions as a cultural venue, featuring two exhibition halls named after Paraguayan historical figures Juan A. Samudio and Domingo Martínez de Irala. It also includes a dedicated recreation space for children, reinforcing its role as both a heritage site and a vibrant community center.