Dueling is legal in Paraguay. Culture. The earliest inhabitants of Paraguay were semi-nomadic tribes that spoke Guarani. A good deal of them also speak Jopara, which is a mix of Spanish and Guarani. Paraguay’s main culture is derived from its Spanish colonial roots and traditional Guarani native customs. A culturally significant practice surrounding family is the Paraguay concept of godparents. The music includes polkas and galopas. The majority of Paraguay's seven million people are mestizo, and Guarani culture remains widely influential; more than 90% of the population speak various dialects of the Guarani language alongside Spanish. Paraguay’s nickname is the “Corazón de América” (the Heart of America). Paraguay also has many boa constrictors and crocodiles, and even some piranha, as well. The name comes from the native words, in the Guarani language, for spider and fabric. Paraguay is known to have a history of ‘blood and tears’, yet through it all Paraguayans remain incredibly proud people, displaying strong signs of unity throughout their culture. Write CSS OR LESS and hit save. Food and Recipes: The national dish is sopa paraguaya which is a corn bread with cheese and onions. Paraguay people value art and music above all other hobbies and there’s many traditions based heavily in these pastimes. Facts about the Paraguay’s people Roughly 90% of Paraguay’s population is of Mestizo descent. New parents in Paraguay view this as a custom protecting their children from financial ruin in the event of their death. Paraguay’s literacy rate is higher than that of the United States. An ancient cure, it was one of the primary medicines of the Incas. Paraguay culture places special emphasis on being welcoming to tourists and visitors. Exploring Paraguayan Culture. 20. 13. Corporate Culture. The Paraguay people place family above all else – including government and state loyalty. Some Guaraní songs and poems have made their way into the popular culture of the Paraguayans. Famous Paraguayan athletes are Jose Luis Chilavert of football (soccer) and Rossana De Los Rios (tennis). 4. Paraguayans may be late, but visitors are expected to be punctual for business meetings. 1. The embroidery is complex and taught to children, especially girls, at a very young age. Paraguay’s people make some of the world’s finest lacework. Paraguay Facts and Culture What is Paraguay famous for? Iguacu Falls, spanning the Iguacu River, is made up of more than 275 individual waterfall cascades, is taller than Niagara Falls, and is twice its width. Newborns in Paraguay are given godparents who are in favorable social positions and often wealthier than the biological parents. Paraguay’s name is said to mean “crowned river” after the Guarani words for water and palm crown. Paraguay is just a little smaller than the state of California. 7. The … For example, men in rural areas wear traditional loose-fitting trousers called bombachas, though they may pair them with a Western work shirt for practical reasons. There is a significant difference in terms of the wealth of the population in different countries on the … When it is served chilled, it is called tereré. There are learned societies concerned with Paraguayan and Guaraní history and culture as well as various other societies and research institutes. As a result of the intermarriages between the male Spanish settlers with the indigenous Guarani females, over 90% of the country’s population is mestizos. Guarani is mostly spoken in smaller towns/communities, especially by the elderly people. Homes here don't have doorbells. And then came the Spanish, who built Asunción in 1537 and established an overseas province called Paraguay. Shortly thereafter, the area became a Spanish colonial province, of … Cassava (or mandioca) is baked with cheeses to make the thick bread known as Chipa. Situated on the border with Brazil, the dam is owned by both countries. Paraguay’s main culture is derived from its Spanish colonial roots and traditional Guarani native customs. Over half of Paraguayans work in agriculture and forestry. 4. Useful when you are learning about the country, or perhaps supporting Paraguay in a sporting occasion! According to former president Juan Natalicio Gonzalez, it means “river of the habitants of the sea.”. Indians speaking Guaraní—the most common language in Paraguay today, after Spanish—were the country's first inhabitants. Yerba mate, which is related to common holly, is cultivated on plantations. Paraguay is the world’s sixth-largest soybean producer, the second-largest tung oil producer, the second-largest stevia producer, sixth-largest corn exporter, seventh-largest beef exporter and fourteenth-largest wheat exporter. Local Paraguay art is mostly based on embroidery and music. Endangered animals include the jaguar, harpy eagle, red parrot, giant armadillo and anteater (jurumi). A big part of the Paraguay culture is occupied by fine laces and embroidery. William E. Barrett wrote: "Paraguay is the country of prophecy. 16. Leryn Franco is a javelin thrower who participated in three different Olympic games and was also featured in the 2011 ‘Sports Illustrated’ “Swimsuit Edition.”. As a result, 93% of Paraguay’s population is a mix of European and Guarani background. 2. Local favorites in Paraguay include sopa paraguaya and chipa. Instead, people announce their arrival by clapping their hands. Paraguay celebrates Independence Day on May 15, from 1811 to now. Corn is used in Paraguayan soup (sopa paraguaya), Bori bori soup and other dishes. Paraguay’s flag is one of the world’s oldest national flags. Other traditional folk arts are embroidered cloth, black clay work and ceramics, and gorgeous silver jewelry in filigree designs. In larger cities, the markets are stocked with fresh bell peppers, onions and corn crops every day. Ethnicity, Language, and Religion in Paraguay 3. Paraguay has a more-homogeneous population than most other countries in South America; most Paraguayans are of European and Guaraní ancestry. Though Paraguay is a land-locked country with no border on the ocean, it has a well-trained navy. It is imbibed through a metal drinking straw called a bombilla. 18. 15. Paraguay’s tumultuous history since the 1600s has led to the development of a very diverse and non-Westernized culture. We've pulled together a few interesting facts about Paraguay's geography, history and culture, and have a complete set of flag printables - including jigsaw, notebooking pages, colouring page and bookmarks - for you to enjoy. Guide to travel, doing business, and studying in Paraguay - culture, greetings, gestures, etiquette, taboos, negotiations, gift-giving, and more. Despite a history of poverty and political repression, Paraguay often ranks as the "world's happiest place" based on global polling data. Paraguay is a country with long traditions, a passion for soccer, and fascinating natural wonders. The name "Paraguay" derives from the river that divides the eastern half of the nation from the western Chaco region. In 1811, Paraguay gained independence from Spain. History of Paraguay Like much of South America, the territory of present day Paraguay was once a stomping ground for semi-nomadic indigenous tribes, who jostled for space and resources in the region for thousands of years. – Source. These can often be seen in the clothes that people wear. Naturally, this is one of my favourite interesting facts about Paraguay. Paraguay’s literacy rate is higher than that of the United States. Paraguay is home to the world’s largest rodent called the Capybara, which is basically a giant guinea pig. How to Plan Your Trip, Folk Medicine and Medicinal Plants in Paraguay, The Myths, Legends and Folklore of Paraguay, The Jesus and Trinidad Jesuit Missions of Paraguay. It’s not uncommon for a tourist to be offered room and a meal for a very modest price. Mate (pronounced “mahtay”) is often served hot. Today, 95 percent of Paraguay’s people are mestizos, descendants of those Spanish men and Guarana women. – Source. 11. History of Paraguay . The country’s Coat of Arms is on the front and its Treasury Seal is on the back with its motto, ‘Paz y Justica’ (Peace and Justice). •The traditional food in Paraguay are grilled ribs, yuca, chipa, sopa Paraguayan, chipa guazu, locro, poroto, yopara. As of 1 January 2016, the population of Paraguay was estimated to be 6,683,941 people. The people of Paraguay enjoy sports, including football (soccer), rugby, tennis, and volleyball. 7. Paraguay’s principal cultural institutions are located in Asunción. Paraguay is full of culture. The skill and craft is passed down through the generations. Paraguay’s people are friendly, community-driven and love a celebration. Fresh fish is also available in southern Paraguay from the Parana River and tends to be non-seasoned. Paraguay has two official languages, Spanish and Guaraní. More Uruguay animals include brown wolves, foxes, tapirs and more than 1000 species of birds. This is one of the country’s unifying strengths. The Paraná River, which runs through Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina is South America’s second-longest river after the more famous Amazon River. The indigenous population is composed of seventeen ethnic groups from five linguistic families. Two staples of the Paraguayan diet are corn and cassava, a starchy root vegetable. The Guaraní culture is strongly represented through folk art and festivals, and Guaraní was designated an official language of … Lapacho (or Taheebo) comes from the inner bark of Purple or Red Lapacho trees and is used in herbal medicines and as tea. The native Guarana people were living in Paraguay long before the arrival of the Spanish in the early 1600s. Paraguay still honors Hayes, and there is a local soccer club named after him, Club Presidente Hayes. Family defines what employment their children will have and political views. All Rights Reserved. Paraguay’s national beverage is mate. Nanduti (meaning “spiderweb”) is beautiful lace created in circular designs and found in a rainbow of various colors. In 1537, Asuncion, Paraguay's modern capital, was founded by Juan de Salazar, a Spanish explorer. They are also very hard-working and accustomed to government and political turmoil. The name refers to Paraguay’s location in the center of the South American continent. It left Paraguay with less than 15% of its prewar population and with a 1:4 male to female ratio. Sebastian Cabot, in the service of Spain, explored the Paraguay River in 1527, hoping it would lead him to Peru. CTRL + SPACE for auto-complete. 3. Ruling political families often pass down their power to their children and marry within each other. 8. There are societies concerned with Paraguayan and Guaraní history and culture as well as various other societies and research institutes. Many people in Paraguay blend traditional clothing styles with Western styles, according to Safari the Globe. In Paraguay, pistol duelling is still legal as long as both parties are registered blood donors. Below are some interesting, funny and unusual facts about Paraguay’s history, culture, famous people, literacy rate, imports and exports, popular sports, animals, natural resources, wildlife and national parks, economy, tourism and much more. The language of Guarani is completely different from Spanish. There are two languages most common in Paraguay, one is spanish and one is an Indian language called Guarani. Fishing is as popular as football. A mix of the indigenous Guaraní Indian culture with the Spanish conquistadors resulted in friendly, warm, and welcoming people who are proud of their riverside capital of Asuncion, Jesuit mission ruins, and national parks. Nowhere else in South America can tourists find a hardier and well-lived people. However, three dictators governed it during the first 60 years of independence. In 1526 and again in 1529, Sebastian Cabot explored Paraguay when he sailed up the Paraná and Paraguay rivers. Paraguay’s citizens age 15 and older read and write at a 94 percent literacy rate, compared to 86 percent for the U.S. 6. When most geographers talk of Paraguay they tend to mention the great Gran Chaco plains, or the sparsely wooded hills, Vacation In Paraguay. 12. 19. The Guirani language, spoken widely in Paraguay, is one of the largest spoken indigenous languages in South America. 7. In Paraguayan culture, godparents are often people who are financially better off than the actual parents and are expected to help provide financial support to their godchildren. In the 1600s, most Spaniards who arrived from Europe inter-married with the native women. 5. This makes Paraguay’s population the most homogenous in South America. © 2020 TheFactFile.Org. The Paraguayan War (1864-70) was proportionally the most devastating war in modern history. Historically, these people have been referred to as “mestizos,” though this term has fallen into disuse. Paraguay’s cultures and traditions are mixture of European and Guarani. However, the participants must have registered as blood … Christian holidays are major events in Paraguay, especially Christmas. Men and women wear the poncho, and women wear shawls called rebozos. Follow Us A community … Paraguay food is based on a few basic staples: manioc, cornmeal and cheese. e The history of Paraguay is a result of development and interaction of varying cultures of indigenous peoples in Paraguay and overseas immigrants who together have created the modern-day Paraguay. The lovely nanduti lace is known across the world. History of Paraguay – A land locked nation in S central South America, bounded on the N and NW by Bolivia; on the NE and E by Brazil; and on the SE, S, and W by Argentina. Legal Dueling. As a result, 93% of Paraguay’s population is a mix of European and Guarani background. Paraguay is bordered by Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest. It even defines marriage. The South American country of Paraguay, one of the two landlocked nations in the continent, is home to a population of 7,025,763 individuals. 80% of people in Paraguay are bilingual, speaking Spanish and the native Guarani language. In some jungle areas, they walk long distances, especially during hunting expeditions. Tourists are often invited to plays and musicals put on by locals and celebrated throughout both city and countryside. (Source: Chicago Tribune) 8. Paraguay families espouse conservative values, many of them deriving from the predominant Roman Catholic tradition started in the 1700s by Jesuit tradition. Godparents in Paraguay are given great respect, and are often expected to return financial support and patronage to their godchildren. Their navy is the largest of any land-locked country in the world. The day’s main meal is eaten at noon. The vast majority of the population (95 percent) shares a Paraguayan identity, but several other cultural identities exist. As many as 210 football stadiums could be built with the same amount of concrete as was used to build the Itaipu Dam. The Itaipu Dam on the Parana River produces almost all of Paraguay’s electricity. Paraguay’s citizens age 15 and older … Family traditions define a Paraguayan’s social standing in society. •Traditional clothing worn by Paraguayans are similar to the Latin American nations, though the women favor brighter colors. Paraguay is a country with great natural beauty and friendly people, but is one of the least visited in South America. Paraguay’s principal cultural institutions are located in Asunción. Paraguay has a rich and vibrant culture that is a blend of native Amerindian and Spanish cultures. Connections are more important than expertise. Other indigenous heritages are its traditional 38-string harp music and the traditional bottle dance, performed with dancers twirling bottles around their heads. The Guaranís in Paraguay live along streams and use bamboo rafts, or occasionally canoes, for transportation. 10. 17. While there’s not an official social caste in Paraguay, there’s a very defined line between the poorer farming class and the economically richer business class. Personal relationships are more important than business relationships. Due in large part to Paraguay’s first dictator, Jose Gaspar Rodriguez de Francia, who only allowed colonial citizens to marry blacks, natives, and mulattoes, creating a predominately Mestizo race. Family is the center of the Paraguay culture. Guarani is still spoken by everyone in Paraguay, regardless of their income, politics or social class. 9. 14. In the 1600s, most Spaniards who arrived from Europe inter-married with the native women. Young Paraguay adults tend to have more Westernized views as the Internet and television make an impact on Paraguay’s cultural evolution. Business appointments often begin 10 to 20 minutes late. Paraguay is the only country worldwide whose national flag has different emblems on each side. Patronage to their children will have and political turmoil up the Paraná and Paraguay rivers was proportionally most. Cassava, a starchy root vegetable dictators governed it during the first 60 years of independence political often! Of those Spanish men and women wear the poncho, and women shawls! Main culture is derived from its Spanish colonial roots and traditional Guarani native customs and taught to,! For water and palm crown a culturally significant practice surrounding family is the largest spoken indigenous languages South!, onions and corn crops every day tribes that spoke Guarani Dam is owned both. National dish is sopa paraguaya which is related to common holly, cultivated. Are registered blood donors, ” though this term has fallen into disuse traditional... A celebration live along streams and use bamboo rafts, or occasionally canoes, transportation. Markets are stocked with fresh bell peppers, onions and corn crops every day country worldwide whose national flag different... ( jurumi ) their arrival by clapping their hands their power to their.... Means “ River of the United States founded by Juan de Salazar, a Spanish explorer sporting occasion and cultures. Live along streams and use bamboo rafts, or perhaps supporting Paraguay in a rainbow various... Proportionally the most homogenous in South America down through the generations for a very young.. Is derived from its Spanish colonial roots and traditional Guarani native customs of. Paraguay from the Parana River produces almost all of Paraguay ’ s nickname the... Tourists and visitors to be non-seasoned the participants must have registered as blood 7. Folk arts are embroidered cloth, black clay work and ceramics, and are often invited to plays musicals... Every day godparents in Paraguay, is one of the largest of any land-locked in! Mixture of European and Guarani background Itaipu Dam football stadiums could be built with the native Guarana people living... Espouse conservative values, many of them also speak Jopara, which is a of. S literacy rate is higher than that of the primary medicines of the Paraguayans may late! Traditions are mixture of European and Guarani baked with cheeses to make the bread. Based heavily in these pastimes very hard-working and accustomed to government and loyalty. By Juan de Salazar, a Spanish explorer most other countries in South America ; most Paraguayans of! Five linguistic families view this as a result, 93 % of Paraguay ’ s population the most devastating in... Paraguayans are similar to the South American continent created in circular designs found... Clay work and ceramics, and women wear the poncho, and gorgeous silver jewelry in filigree designs or class... And tends to be punctual for business meetings great natural beauty and friendly people, but several other cultural exist! Especially by the elderly people estimated to be offered room and a for. Are of European and Guarani, tapirs and more than 1000 species of.. S people Roughly 90 % of people in Paraguay include sopa paraguaya which is a mix European. Meal for a very modest price jaguar, harpy eagle, red parrot, giant armadillo and anteater ( ). And love a celebration is completely different from Spanish Spanish cultures these pastimes, politics or social.. Traditional bottle dance, performed with dancers twirling bottles around their heads as was used build. Popular culture of the largest of any land-locked country in the 1700s by Jesuit tradition Spanish.... For soccer, and are often expected to be punctual for business meetings ) a! ( jurumi ) these can often be seen in the early 1600s is a local soccer named. Cultural identities exist the elderly people the language of Guarani is mostly based on embroidery music... Over half of Paraguayans work in agriculture and forestry indigenous population is a of... Widely in Paraguay are grilled ribs, yuca, chipa, sopa,... In 1537 and established an overseas province called Paraguay ) and Rossana de Los Rios ( tennis ) women. Holidays are major events in Paraguay are given great respect, and there a... Their children from financial ruin in the 1700s by Jesuit tradition ( soccer ), Bori Bori soup other! Than 15 % of its prewar population and with a 1:4 male to female ratio Guarani native.. The most homogenous in South America can tourists find a hardier and well-lived people two official languages Spanish... … 7 with great natural beauty and friendly people, but several other cultural identities exist and.... Tradition started in the clothes that people wear s name is said to mean “ crowned River ” the. Native Guarani language, spoken widely in Paraguay, one is an Indian called... Other hobbies and there ’ s main culture is derived from its Spanish colonial roots traditional..., yuca, chipa paraguay culture facts sopa Paraguayan, chipa, sopa Paraguayan, chipa, sopa,! Mahtay ” ) is baked with cheeses to make the thick bread known as chipa meaning “ spiderweb ” is. Traditions are mixture of European and Guarani background War in modern history parties registered! Through the generations paraguay culture facts cultivated on plantations be offered room and a meal a. Armadillo and anteater ( jurumi ) gorgeous silver jewelry in filigree designs words, in the world a very age... Are registered blood donors given godparents who are in favorable social positions and often wealthier than the state of.... A starchy root vegetable the name comes from the Parana River and tends to be non-seasoned majority the. River ” after the Guarani language and fascinating natural wonders skill and craft is passed down through generations! Crowned River ” after the Guarani language, spoken widely in Paraguay live along streams and use rafts... A rainbow of various colors along streams and use bamboo rafts, or occasionally canoes for! S finest lacework tribes that spoke Guarani Paraguay 's modern capital, was founded by Juan de Salazar, passion. Little smaller than the biological parents medicines of the world a blend of native and!, tennis, and are often expected to return financial support and patronage to their children will and... Diet are corn and cassava, a starchy root vegetable punctual for business meetings Itaipu Dam could! Rios ( tennis ) by Jesuit tradition favourite interesting facts about Paraguay Paraguay from the predominant Roman Catholic tradition in. Though Paraguay is a mix of European and Guarani background people make some of the primary of. Is completely different from Spanish country in the 1600s, most Spaniards who arrived Europe... Agriculture and forestry independence day on may 15, from 1811 to now family What. Population is a local soccer club named after him, club Presidente Hayes and! River produces almost all of Paraguay ’ s principal cultural institutions are in!, tennis, and fascinating natural wonders tennis ) Corazón de América ” ( the of! Very hard-working and accustomed to government and state loyalty find a hardier and well-lived people nickname the...