Country | Paraguay |
Population | 2343908 |
Area | 117 km2 (45.2 sq mi) |
Time Zone | None |
Coordinates | -25.28646, -57.647 |
Highest elevation | 43 m (141 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Asunción, the capital and largest city of Paraguay, is a vibrant metropolis situated on the eastern bank of the Paraguay River, near its confluence with the Pilcomayo River. Known as “the Mother of Cities,” Asunción is one of the oldest cities in South America and has been continuously inhabited since its founding. From this historic city, Spanish colonial expeditions launched to establish other key cities, including Buenos Aires, Corrientes, and Santa Cruz de la Sierra.
Asunción has a population of 477,346 according to the 2022 Paraguayan Census, while its metropolitan area, known as Greater Asunción, boasts over 2.3 million inhabitants. This makes it the most densely populated and economically productive area in Paraguay, contributing to 70% of the National GDP. The city itself is an autonomous capital district, distinct from any department, while the metropolitan area includes neighboring cities such as San Lorenzo, Fernando de la Mora, and Luque, which are part of the Central Department.
Asunción serves as the heart of Paraguay’s government and culture. It hosts the three branches of the state (Executive, Legislative, and Judicial), the Cultural Center of the Republic, and numerous state agencies. Historically the main river port of the country, Asunción has seen this role diminish, with Villeta now taking on much of this function. Despite this, Asunción remains a crucial center for national and cultural activities, with major decisions and projects often emanating from here. It is also a hub for banking, economics, culture, diplomacy, and industry.
Strategically located in the center-north of the Southern Cone, Asunción benefits from its proximity to major South American cities such as Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and São Paulo. It is roughly equidistant from both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, promoting its role as a regional economic hub. This advantageous position supports the city’s economic growth and has earned it the classification of a “Gamma City” by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network.
Asunción’s cultural and sports significance is underscored by its hosting of the CONMEBOL headquarters in nearby Luque, governing South American football. The city is also home to numerous historical landmarks, modern institutions, and cultural venues. Notably, it ranks as one of the cheapest cities in the world for foreign visitors and the third-safest capital in Latin America, following Buenos Aires and Santiago, according to InSight Crime.
The city’s economy is diverse, encompassing meat, fish, and cotton processing industries, and serving as a regional market for livestock, salt, dates, and grains. Asunción is also a key investment destination, particularly in the construction and service sectors, driving one of the highest economic growth rates in the region today.
Asunción’s historical significance, strategic location, and vibrant cultural scene make it an essential and dynamic city in Paraguay and the broader South American region.
Leave a Reply