National Museum of Fine Arts of Asuncion, Asuncion

The National Museum of Fine Arts of Asunción is one of Paraguay’s most important cultural institutions. Founded in 1909 by the distinguished art collector and cultural advocate Juan Silvano Godoy, the museum was born from his collection and passion for art. Officially recognized as a national museum in 1939, it remains a key player in preserving and promoting Paraguayan and international artistic heritage.

Located in the heart of Asunción, the museum houses a diverse collection of over 650 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photographs, prints, and antique furniture. Its holdings reflect both European and Paraguayan influences, with works spanning from the 17th to the 20th century.

Highlights of the collection include pieces by European artists from the Italian and French schools of the 19th century, as well as notable Argentine creators. However, the museum’s pride lies in its representation of Paraguayan visual art. It features works by pioneers such as Andrés Campos Cervera, Carlos Colombino, Juan Samudio, Jaime Bestard, Holden Roberto Jara, Pablo Alborno, Modesto Delgado Rodas, and Ignacio Núñez Soler—artists who shaped the early yet spirited development of Paraguay’s national art scene.

In addition to art, the museum offers a glimpse into the personal world of its founder, showcasing ancient coins, vintage furniture, and various objects that once belonged to Godoy. This blend of fine art and historical artifacts makes the National Museum of Fine Arts not only a gallery but also a living archive of Paraguay’s cultural memory.