Central brings together cultural attractions, lakeside scenery, hills and natural landmarks. When planning your trip, you can consider whether Ñandutí crafts, religious architecture, time by the water or outdoor activities match your interests.
Crafts and cultural heritage
Itauguá is closely associated with Ñandutí: the delicate, handmade lace became popular there and a symbol of Paraguayan cultural identity. Ñandutí in Itauguá is described as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This places both the craft and its cultural significance in focus.
Luque is described as the “Capital de la Música” (Capital of Music) and the birthplace of Paraguayan filigree art. The two titles emphasize different things: music on the one hand and delicate craftsmanship on the other. In Itauguá, the Museo San Rafael preserves colonial and religious objects of great historical value. The Iglesia San Francisco de Asís there is an example of 18th-century colonial architecture.
Churches in other places in the Departamento Central also give the region’s cultural heritage a distinctive character. The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Milagros in Itá preserves the venerated image of the Virgen de Itá and is an important pilgrimage center. In Capiatá, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is described as one of Paraguay’s oldest and best-known temples, as well as an architectural and spiritual landmark.
Areguá between the lakeshore and handicrafts
Areguá is the capital of the Departamento Central. The city lies on the shore of Lago Ypacaraí and in the basin formed by the lake together with the Río Salado. Families and other visitors can relax along the lakeside promenade with views of the lake. There is also a traditional market featuring clay crafts, including figurines and dream catchers. It is open daily; check the details locally before your trip.
In warm weather, the swimming spots at Arroyo Paranambú offer a place to relax and are popular with visitors and residents alike. Check local conditions before visiting. Anyone wanting information about the city or region while in Areguá can get personal assistance and comprehensive tourist information at Turista Róga.
Natural landmarks and outdoor activities
Cerro Koi and Cerro Chorori were designated natural landmarks in 1993 under Law No. 179 to protect their natural and geological heritage. Cerro de Itá and Cerro Arrúa’i offer a different way to explore the landscape: the two hills are associated with adventure tourism, hikes, photo safaris and exploring old trails. Alongside the protection of geological natural landmarks, outdoor activities are therefore a travel interest in their own right.
In Fernando de la Mora, Parque Ecológico is described as a natural retreat in the middle of the city. It adds an urban connection with nature to the region’s selection of landscape and nature attractions.
Discover more destinations: Lambare, Itauguá, Areguá, Luque, Limpio, San Lorenzo, Ypacaraí, Nemby, Fernando De La Mora, Capiatá.
For the wider travel overview: Paraguay.
