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