Colonia Independencia facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Independencia
View from the top of the hill Cerro Cora
Colonia Independencia Location in Paraguay
Country	Paraguay
Department	Guairá
Population  (2022)
• Total	25 000

Independencia (once known as Colonia Independencia) is a town and district in the Guairá department of Paraguay. It is a place with a rich history and a strong connection to its German heritage.

History of Independencia

The first people known to live in this area were the Mbya and Guayaki tribes. They were indigenous peoples of Paraguay. The area was first called Muvevo. This was the name of a plant the natives used for smoking.

Later, Paraguayan people and other settlers arrived. The area then got the name Kuruzupe. This means "flat cross" in the local language. It was named after a cross-shaped coffin brought by a German family. After that, it was called Campo Melgarejo. This means "Fields of Melgarejo" in Spanish. It was named after Conrado Melgarejo, a businessman from Villarrica.

Independencia was officially started on January 17, 1920. It began as a small village belonging to the town of Mbocayaty. Its first name was Colonia Independencia Nacional, which means "National Independence Colony" in Spanish.

The establishment of the colony was organized by Genaro Romero. He was a public servant from the city of Concepcion. Romero was also a journalist. He worked hard to support the rights of Paraguayan farm workers. On June 23, 1955, the colony became its own self-governing municipality. This means it could manage its own local affairs.

German Heritage and Tourism

Independencia is a popular place for tourists to visit. Many people come because of its strong German heritage. The town is especially famous in October for its big Oktoberfest celebration. This festival celebrates German culture with music, food, and fun.

The town is also known for its beautiful natural sites. These include the hills of Ybytyruzu. These hills offer great views and outdoor activities.

Immigration to Independencia

Colonia Independencia welcomed many immigrants in the early 20th century. This was especially true after World War I. Most immigrants came from German regions like Baden-Wurttenberg and Bavaria.

However, other German-speaking people also moved here. They came from countries like Austria, Switzerland, and Hungary. These immigrants helped shape the culture and community of Independencia.

Road Connections

The town of Independencia is connected to the national road system. This connection is made through PY10. This road helps people travel to and from the town easily.

See also

In Spanish: Independencia (municipio de Paraguay) para niños