Central: Ñandutí, cultural heritage and landscapes

The Department of Central brings together cultural themes, landscapes and outdoor activities. The towns in the department each focus on different things.

Culture and handicrafts

Ñandutí, a delicate handmade lace, is closely associated with Itauguá. The city is considered the place where the craft became popular and a symbol of Paraguay’s cultural identity. Ñandutí from Itauguá is also described as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Luque, in turn, is called the “Capital de la Música” (Capital of Music) and is considered the birthplace of Paraguayan filigree art. The two towns thus highlight different handicraft traditions.

In Itauguá, the Museo San Rafael preserves colonial and religious objects of great historical value. Also there, the Iglesia San Francisco de Asís is an example of 18th-century colonial architecture. In Capiatá, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is considered one of Paraguay’s oldest and best-known temples, as well as an architectural and spiritual landmark. The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Milagros in Itá preserves the revered image of the Virgen de Itá and is an important pilgrimage center.

Lake Ypacaraí and nature

Areguá, the capital of the Department of Central, lies on the shore of Lake Ypacaraí and in the basin formed by the lake and the Río Salado. Families and visitors can relax on the waterfront promenade with views of the lake. Those seeking guidance about the city or region can get personal assistance and comprehensive tourist information at Turista Róga de Areguá.

The natural monuments Cerro Koi and Cerro Chorori were designated in 1993 under Law No. 179 to protect their natural and geological heritage. In warm weather, the bathing spots along the Arroyo Paranambú offer a place to relax and are popular with visitors and residents. Check local conditions before your trip if you plan to visit.

The hills Cerro de Itá and Cerro Arrúa’i are also associated with adventure tourism, hiking, photo safaris and exploring old trails. In Fernando de la Mora, the Parque Ecológico is considered a natural retreat in the middle of the city. These places represent different nature themes in the department, from geological heritage to outdoor activities.

Activities and trip planning

Areguá hosts a traditional market every day featuring pottery, including figurines and dreamcatchers. For planning purposes, this offering differs from the bathing spots along the Arroyo Paranambú, which provide a place to relax in warm weather. Before your trip, check locally whether the market is open on your preferred day and what conditions apply at the bathing spots.

You can also take cultural and scenic interests into account when choosing your destinations: Ñandutí and filigree art represent different handicraft traditions, while Areguá puts the lake and its waterfront promenade center stage.

Discover more destinations: Lambare, Itauguá, Areguá, Luque, Limpio, San Lorenzo, Ypacaraí, Nemby, Fernando De La Mora, Capiatá.

For the main travel overview: Paraguay.