Fact 1: The World’s Largest Rodent Chaos
Paraguay is home to the Capybara, the largest rodent in the world. This semi-aquatic mammal can weigh close to a whopping 140 pounds and measure about four feet in length. It is commonly found in the wetlands and swamp regions all over the country.
Fact 2: The Paraguayan War Impact
In the late 19th century, Paraguay endured one of the most devastating wars in Latin America's history - the Paraguayan War. This conflict was so deadly that it wiped out nearly 70% of the population where only about 28,000 men were left alive.
Fact 3: Land of Twins
Interestingly, Paraguay is a country known for having a high rate of twin births. It has led Researchers to study the genetic code of the local population in the Mbaracayu area to identify the genetic factors behind this phenomenon .
Fact 4: Literary Marvel
Famously, Paraguay's national epic poem, "Canto Paraguayo," which is an adaptation of the Paraguayan story in Guarani—the indigenous language of Paraguay—was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Fact 5: Co-existence of Languages
Guarani and Spanish are the official languages of Paraguay. It’s fascinating to note that Paraguay is the only country in the Americas where a majority of the population speaks a native language. So, don’t be surprised if you encounter two languages being used interchangeably when you visit Paraguay.
Fact 6: A Forest Reserve Run by a NGO
The Itaipu Forest Reserve in Paraguay is managed and protected by a non-governmental organization. It’s a refuge for those who seek to be in harmony with nature and devoted to environmental education, research, and conservation of biodiversity.
Fact 7: The Busiest Construction of its Kind
The Itaipu Dam on Paraguay's Paraná River is labeled as the second-most productive hydroelectric dam in the world. This massive structure can generate about 75% of Paraguay's entire electricity requirement and around 17% of Brazil’s.
Fact 8: The Paraguay River: A Source of Pride
One cannot forget to mention the Paraguay River when mentioning Paraguay. Serving as the country's primary waterway, it divides the country into two regions and is an essential source for fish and water.
Fact 9: The Unusual Flag
Paraguay’s flag is unique because it has different emblems on its front and back. The front bears the national coat of arms, while the back holds the seal of the treasury. It is one of the very few flags in the world that has this unique characteristic.
Fact 10: The Largest Female Orchestra
Paraguay created a record for having the world's largest orchestra composed entirely of women. Reflecting the influence of music in Paraguayan culture, more than 1,500 female musicians participated in this record-breaking event.
Fact 11: Rich Wildlife
Paraguay is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, among them are more than 700 bird species that can be seen across the country, from the Jaguar to the maned wolf.
Fact 12: Landlocked Country
Paraguay is one of the two landlocked countries in South America, the other being Bolivia. This geographical aspect heavily influences the country's climate, economy, and culture.
Fact 13: Ancient Ceramic Art
Paraguay is known for its ancient ceramic art, especially from the Ita tribe. Visitors are often fascinated by the beautifully crafted pottery, a testament to Paraguay's rich cultural history.
Fact 14: Love for Soccer
Like many other Latin American countries, soccer is a passion in Paraguay. The country's national team, Los Guarani, is one of the proudest teams in South America, and soccer matches are not to be missed.
Fact 15: Unique Trees
Paraguay is home to the Quebracho tree, which translates to "axe breaker", an exceedingly hard and dense tree. This tree is a major contributor to the economy because of its value in the timber industry for railroad ties and fence posts.
Fact 16: Traditional Beverages
The most popular drink in Paraguay is the traditional tea called "Mate". Made from steeped dried leaves of yerba mate, it is served hot or cold and often shared in communal gatherings.
Fact 17: Mennonite Colonies
Paraguay houses one of the largest Mennonite colonies in the world. They primarily occupy the western, or Gran Chaco region, of the country and are known for their dairy products.
Fact 18: Museum of Indigenous Art
Paraguay's Museum of Indigenous Art, located in Asunción, is one of the few museums dedicated to preserving and showcasing the art and culture of South America's distinct indigenous groups.
Fact 19: Festivities Galore
Paraguay hosts many colourful and vibrant festivals throughout the year. The most exciting and well-known among these is the Carnival of Encarnación, more commonly known as the Paraguayan Mardi Gras.
Fact 20: Home of the Giant Lily Pads
The Yhaguy River in Paraguay is known for its giant lily pads (Victoria cruziana). These plants can reach diameters of over 6 feet and are strong enough to support a small child, earning them the name 'water platters'. This sight is one of the many natural wonders of Paraguay.