Caraguatay, Paraguay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Caraguatay
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| Caraguatay | |
 Caraguatay
Location in Paraguay
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| Country | Paraguay |
| Department | Cordillera |
| Founded | 24 September 1770 |
| Area | |
| • Total | 91 km2 (35 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 71 m (233 ft) |
| Population | |
| • Total | 11,568 |
| Postal code |
3150
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| Area code(s) | (595) (517) |
Caraguatay (pronounced ka-ra-gwa-TAI) is a town and district in the Cordillera Department of Paraguay. It's located in a special area called Vapor Cué. Most people in Caraguatay make a living by farming, fishing, or trading goods locally.
Contents
Weather in Caraguatay
The weather in this part of Paraguay is usually mild and dry. The average temperature is about 22 °C (72 °F). In summer, it can get quite hot, reaching up to 39 °C (102 °F). During winter, temperatures can drop to about 3 °C (37 °F).
People of Caraguatay
In 2002, Caraguatay had a population of 11,568 people. This included 6,045 men and 5,523 women. Many people from Caraguatay have moved to other countries, especially the United States, to work. They often send money back home to their families. You can see how this money has helped the town, as many new buildings have been built.
Caraguatay's Past: A Look at History
A Spanish family named Franco started the town of Caraguatay on September 24, 1770. This happened when Carlos Morphi was the governor. The town was built along the banks of the Yhaguy River. Before it was called Caraguatay, this area was known as Puesto Mbocajaty. It also included the places Iriarte, Ybyraity, and Yeguarizo.
Caraguatay is one of the oldest towns in Paraguay. It has beautiful old buildings from the Spanish colonial times. The town also has lovely, well-kept gardens and streets.
How People Make a Living
The main jobs in Caraguatay are in agriculture (farming) and raising cattle. As mentioned, many people have gone to work in other countries. The money they send back home is a very important part of the town's income.
Fun Things to See and Do: Tourism
The town's founding day, September 24, is also a big celebration. It's the day of their patron saint, the Virgen De Las Mercedes. People organize official events, church services, and school activities. There are also fun music and dance festivals. Another celebration happens on May 14, which is the day of Saint Francis Labrador.
A famous historical figure, Francisco Solano López, who was a Marshall (a high-ranking military leader), and Eliza Lynch once lived in a house in Caraguatay. It was the home of the Miranda family.
The Ykuá Ramírez was a camp for Paraguayan soldiers during the War of 1870.
Vapor Cué National Park: A Museum of Ships
Close to the town center, right by the Yhaguy River, is the "Vapor Cué National Park." This is a very special outdoor museum! Here, you can see the remains of six ships that belonged to Paraguay during the War of 1870. These ships were named Anhambay, Paraná, Pirabebé/Piravevé, Rio Apa, Salto del Guairá, and Yporá.
Towards the end of the war, these ships were set on fire and sunk. This was done so the enemy couldn't use them. Starting in 1978, their remains were carefully brought up from the water. Now, they are displayed, partly restored, for everyone to see. You can also find other items, flags, and old photographs from that time.
Getting to Caraguatay
Caraguatay is about 91 kilometers (56 miles) away from Asunción, the capital city. You can get there by taking Route number 2. When you reach the center of Eusebio Ayala, which is 65 kilometers from Asunción, you'll find a turn-off to the north. This road leads directly to Caraguatay and other nearby towns.
If you're in Asunción, you can also take a bus from the central bus station. Several buses go directly to Caraguatay.
Famous People from Caraguatay
Caraguatay is proud to be the birthplace of three Paraguayan presidents:
- Juan Antonio Escurra (who lived from 1859 to 1919)
- Emiliano González Navero (who lived from 1861 to 1940)
- José Félix Estigarribia (who lived from 1888 to 1940)
Another important person from Caraguatay was José del Rosario Miranda. He served as Vice President of Paraguay from 1886 to 1890.
Gallery
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A bridge over the Yhaguy river
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Steamer Anhambay in Vapor Cué National Park
See also
In Spanish: Caraguatay (Paraguay) para niños
