Geography and History
Where is Paraguay located?
Paraguay is located in South America, bordered by Brazil to the east and northeast, Argentina to the south and southwest, and Bolivia to the northwest. It is a landlocked country with the Paraná River forming part of its southwestern boundary and the Paraguay River forming most of its eastern and southeastern borders.
In which continent is Paraguay located?
South America
Which two major rivers border Paraguay?
The Paraná River and the Paraguay River
What nickname has been given to Paraguay due to its landlocked location?
The "Heart of South America"
Which country did Paraguay fight in the longest and deadliest land war in South American history?
Bolivia, during the Chaco War (1932-1935)
When did Paraguay gain its independence from Spain?
May 14, 1811
People and Culture
What percentage of Paraguay's population identifies as Guarani, an indigenous group?
Approximately 95%
What is the official language of Paraguay, alongside Guarani?
Spanish
What traditional musical instrument is considered the soul of Paraguayan music?
The harp
What iconic dance, often performed with colorful hats and ribbons, is a symbol of Paraguayan heritage?
The Paraguayan Polka
What is the national drink of Paraguay, made from yerba mate leaves?
Tereré
Nature and Economy
What type of forest covers about 17% of Paraguay's land area, providing valuable biodiversity?
The Atlantic Forest
Which hydroelectric dam, located on the Paraná River, is the largest in the world in terms of installed capacity?
The Itaipu Dam
What agricultural product is Paraguay the world's largest exporter of?
Soybeans
What nickname has been given to Ciudad del Este, a border town known for its bustling trade?
The "Shop of Paraguay"
What unique natural wonder, formed by volcanic activity, lies in the eastern region of Paraguay?
Salto Cristal, the world's tallest waterfall on volcanic rock
Arts and Literature
Who is the most famous Paraguayan painter, known for his vibrant and expressive portraits?
Cirilo Gómez Villaverde
What epic poem, considered Paraguay's national epic, tells the story of the Guarani people and the Spanish conquest?
Cantos de Ayvu Rapytá
Who is the renowned Paraguayan author whose novel "Yo El Supremo" explores the dictatorship of José Gaspar RodrÃguez de Francia?
Augusto Roa Bastos
What film genre is Paraguay particularly known for, often depicting everyday life and social issues?
Social Realism cinema
What famous contemporary filmmaker from Paraguay uses a blend of fiction and documentary to address historical and political themes?
Marcelo Martinesi
Fun Facts and Quirks
What unusual nickname is jokingly given to Asunción, the capital of Paraguay?
The "Mother of Cities," due to its historical role as a center of Spanish colonization
What peculiar phenomenon occurs in parts of Paraguay, where the wind suddenly cools down dramatically due to an air mass rushing down from the Andes?
La Suelda, meaning "the welder," as it can even extinguish fires
What type of unique cheese is produced in Paraguay, using a special plant-based rennet and aged in palm tree trunks?
Queso Paraguay, known for its tangy flavor and crumbly texture
What unusual ingredient is sometimes added to tereré, the national drink?
Crushed yerba mate stems, known as "pava"
What quirky annual competition takes place in Paraguay, where teams race to pull wooden logs while barefoot?
The Carrera de Carreta, or oxcart race
What unexpected animal is considered a popular street food in certain parts of Paraguay?
Capybara