Paraguay is a landlocked country in the continent of South America. It is shares its borders with Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia. It is home to the Guarani (native tribe).
Landforms
Paraguay has distinct landforms shaped by a water body. The river Paraguay is the lifeline of the country that runs from the north to south, dividing the country into two regions — eastern Paraguay or Paranena region, and western Paraguay or Gran Chaco region.
The Paranena region touches the south. It is a fertile region, made up of continuous hills with subtropical forests. Summers fall between October and March and winters from May to August. A majority of the country’s population resides in the Paranena region.
Gran Chaco runs all the way up to the north, is a partially dry, small plain with bushy forests. It is divided into Upper Chaco and Lower Chaco. Upper Chaco is a dry region made up of low hills. Lower Chaco, being humid, houses the largest wetland in Paraguay called Estero Patino. Only 5% of the country’s population lives in Gran Chaco though it is large in terms of area. This region is rich in wildlife — there are 60 different species of snakes!
Cuisine
Paraguayan food has an interesting history. It has a strong Guarani influence as well as Spanish. So, Paraguayan cuisine uses a lot of corn as it grows in abundance in the country, and dairy products. Sopa Paraguaya (in pic), a national dish can be easily considered as a soup but it is in fact a cornbread prepared with cheese and grilled onions. Another favourite is the Vori Vori, a soup with balls of cornmeal, cornflour, and cheese in it.
The consumption of beef is high and a popular dish is Empanada which is a pastry made of beef and vegetables. In South Paraguay, fresh fish is a staple because of the River Parana.
Culture
The Spanish invasion was in 1500 AD. About 80% of the Paraguayan population speaks a mix of Spanish and Guarani.
Nanduti, meaning “spider web” in Guaraní, is an unique lace-making art form practised in Paraguay.
Guaranis are also known for making ceramic ware. Ceramics, glass and works of clay find a place in Museo del Barro, a museum in Asuncion, Paraguay.
Shake a leg to the polka music, a European influence in Paraguay. In addition, the Spanish guitar and harp are an essential part of the music scene.
Apart from football, basketball is also a popular sport in Paraguay.