Paraguay requests return of historical war trophies from Brazil

During an informal meeting of Mercosur foreign ministers in Montevideo, Paraguay renewed its formal request to Brazil for the restitution of historical war trophies, most notably the ‘Cañón Cristiano’. The 12-ton cannon, manufactured during the War of the Triple Alliance using church bell metal, was captured by Brazilian forces and is currently held at the National Historical Museum in Rio de Janeiro.

Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano indicated that Brazil has officially received the request. Both nations have agreed to continue working toward a solution, with Ramírez Lezcano scheduled to travel to Brasilia to discuss mechanisms for resolving the matter. The Paraguayan government is also seeking the return of the ‘Cañón Mariscal López’ and other historical artifacts.

Because the items are considered national heritage, any restitution would require internal processes within Brazil and subsequent approval from the Brazilian Congress.