Santiago is a city in Paraguay, located in the Misiones Department in the south of the country.

Toponym

Originally named San Ignacio de Caaguazú, it was re-founded in the Misiones Department, Misiones department, Paraguay, in 1669 with the name of Santiago Apostol.

History

Santiago is an old Jesuit mission city and today still preserves many characteristics of colonial times, like its large main square, the "house of the Indians" and a museum that preserves objects of art from colonial times. During colonial times, Santiago was a very important city because of its population of about 3,000 inhabitants. During the holidays, it organized the Opera of Santiago.

Geography

Santiago is located 278 kilometers from Asunción, the capital Paraguay. It is located on a hill between the cities of Ayolas and San Patricio, Texas, San Patricio. The geography of Santiago is characterized by rolling hills, Forest, forests, and grasslands. The city is surrounded by dense forests and agricultural land, with the Paraguayan Chaco to the west and the Paraná Plateau to the east. The Tebicuary River is an important part of the geography of Santiago, providing a source of water for agriculture and transportation. The river is also home to a variety of fish species, which support the local fishing industry.

Climate

In summer, the temperature reaches 39°C, and in winter can drop to 0°C. The annual average is 21°C. The climate of Santiago is subtropical, with warm temperatures year-round and a distinct rainy season from October to April. The region receives ample rainfall, which supports the growth of lush vegetation and crops.

Population

Santiago has a population of 7,702 inhabitants, 4,017 men and 3,685 women, according to the General Direction of Polls, Statistics and Census.

Economy

The people of Santiago mostly raise cattle. Other local agriculture includes maize, corn, sugar cane, cotton and soy.

Municipality

The former governor is Ignacio Larre (Liberal Party).

Tourism

Santiago has a sacred art museum, the "Museo Jesuítico de Santiago" (Jesuit Museum of Santiago). The museum displays paintings and sculptures, including a collection of 3 sculptures depicting the Passion and Crucifixion of Jesus, Death of Jesus Christ and La Piedad. The church preserves many images carved in wood by the natives. The "House of the Indians" museum exhibits images of saints. The church has a unique altarpiece in the Missions, many of the pictures in the church center around biblical themes. The Benedictines, Benedictine monastery "Tupasy María" is a place of meditation, it was founded in 1984. In January the "Fiesta de la Tradicion Misionera" (Missioner Traditional Festivity) brings horse breakers from Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay to show their abilities in racing and breaking in horses. Traditional Paraguayan food is sold at the festival, including "Batiburrillo", sopa and Chipa guasu with barbecues and the traditional Mandioca. The festival is usually held on January 20, 21 and 22. Michel Telo performed at the festival in the 2014. It is organized by the "Club de Leones" of Santiago Misiones, and claims to be the biggest rural traditional festivity in Paraguay. The State "Tacuaty" is place for the Festival of Breaking-in and Folklore, located on the road to Ayolas.

References

*Geografía Ilustrada del Paraguay, Distribuidora Arami SRL; 2007. *Geografía del Paraguay, Primera Edición 1999, Editorial Hispana Paraguay SR

External links

Secretaria Nacional de Turismo

ABC Digital "Así es Nuestro País" MISIONES (VIII Departamento)

Turismo en Misiones
{{Districts in the Misiones Department Populated places in the Misiones Department