Music
Paraguayan Polka and Guaranias are the typical musical rhythms. Polkas
have a lively rhythm, while the Guaranias are of a more mellow and romantic
rhythm. Internationally known for its musical tradition, Paraguay is the
cradle of great musical composers and interpreters such as Agustín
Barrios and José Asunción Flores.
Food
Traditional meals are made with beef, corn, and the manioc as primary
ingredients, and are the basis of the Paraguayan gastronomy. "Chipa"
and "Mbeyu" are among the typical delights (breads made with
starch and fresh cheese), the "Chipa Guazú" (corn souffle),
the "Payaguá Mascada" (cake made from manioc and beef)
and the "Sopa Paraguaya" (made with corn flour, fresh cheese,
and onion).
Celebrations
During the entire year, towns and cities all over the country recreate
the traditional popular celebrations and customs. Some with religious
background such as that of the immaculate Conception, in the City of Caacupé;
Easter Celebrations in Emboscada, Tañarandy, Piribebuy, and San
Juan as well. The festival of San Pedro and San Pablo in the City of Altos
has very special characteristics based on long-standing traditions and
folklore. There are also non-religious festivities, such as those of Santiago
and San Miguel where horsemen compete to demonstrate their skills accompanied
by the rhythm of folk bands.
Hand Crafts
The popular art manifestations are results of the mixture of cultures
and traditions. Outstanding craftsmanship are those in leather; "Ñandutí"
and "Aó po-í" fabric (fine hand made embroideries
in fabrics, originally done in cotton, that present natural motives with
geometrical styles); handcrafts in cow horn (the typical "Guampas"
to drink "Mate" and "Tereré" infusions); silver
work, especially the filigree from the City of Luque that recreates in
fine threads of gold and silver, the design of our traditional embroideries,
combining them with coral and semiprecious stones, according to old traditional
patterns of the colonial jewelry times. Pottery, especially from the cities
of Itá, Tobatí and Areguá is another attractive handcraft
from artisans who are renowned internationally.
The manufacture of musical instruments deserves a special mention: a tradition
that began with the Jesuit missions, the Paraguayan "Luthiers"
are expert in the production of guitars and harps made from the noble
wood of this land.
Indigenous art
The different indigenous communities produce beautiful works of art. They
traditionally use natural fibers, native wood, multicolored seeds
and other materials. Worthy of admiration is the art with colorful feathers,
said to be the carrier of the magic of old ceremonies, with all their
tradition and powerful symbolism.
Museums
Today it is possible to learn about the rich cultural patrimony of Paraguay
through art collections in private as well as public museums and institutions
that offer visitors insight into the historical and contemporary artistic
manifestations of Paraguayan culture. Cultural centers strategically located
in the historical downtown area of the City of Asunción and in
residential areas present the rich artistic production in exhibits.
Amusement
Asuncion by night is full of options: Dance Clubs, Karaoke Bars, Casinos,
Cafes, and Restaurants. Places with live music shows that go from the
typical Folk music to the acid rock or cool jazz concerts. Shows with
musicians and composers presenting their own compositions with excellent
approval of the audience are amongst other many possibilities.
Paraguay
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