Just 10 km from the centre of Asunción lies the youthful and lively city of Fernando de la Mora. Founded in 1939, the city tells a curious story behind its original name and its achievement of municipal autonomy. Located in the Asunción metropolitan area, it is often seen as an access point to the capital.
However, the district offers much more than a gateway. Fernando de la Mora is known as a “young and happy” city and was declared the Capital of Tereré in 2011. Furthermore, the municipality is home to cultural, natural, and religious sites worth visiting.
Young and happy city, the origins of Fernando de la Mora
The area now occupied by the city of Fernando de la Mora was formerly known as Zavala Cué (“Former Zavala” in Guaraní). The name originated after the Zavala family, owners of vast pieces of land in the territory, moved away from the community. Zavala Cué originally belonged to San Lorenzo del Campo Grande, its current neighbouring city. The local population, which increased over time, eventually demanded a separation from San Lorenzo.
Therefore, on 28 February 1939, the town was officially established as an independent municipality. The new municipality was named after the Paraguayan independence hero, Fernando de la Mora.
Today, the city has evolved into a fully urbanised and vibrant locality. It comprises 15 neighbourhoods, administratively divided into two zones, Zona Norte and Zona Sur, and separated by Mariscal Estigarribia Avenue. In 2026, this vibrant and ever-growing city celebrated its 87th anniversary, reflecting its “young and happy” identity.
The Capital of Tereré
Tereré, a traditional Paraguayan cold drink made from yerba mate and ice-cold water, is also part of the city’s core identity. Fernando de la Mora was officially declared the Capital of Tereré in March 2011 by Paraguay’s National Congress. The recognition happened due to the numerous cultural activities held in the town to promote this traditional beverage.
Monuments, signs and murals with phrases like “Tereré is Paraguay” can be observed at the entrance and squares of the city. The National Day of Tereré often coincides with Fernando de la Mora’s anniversary. Local residents usually celebrate both occasions together. Moreover, a “Tereré Museum” Cultural Corner was inaugurated in 2021 in the city’s South Zone (Zona Sur) to honour this cultural heritage.
Cultural and artistic scene
The Pedro Moliniers Municipal Theatre serves as the main venue for the community’s cultural and artistic activities. The venue hosts numerous events throughout the year promoting local talent and education. The events include artistic performances and ceremonies from dance, theatre, arts and local schools. The theatre is located next to the municipality, on Capitán Montiel St, between Mariscal Estigarribia Av and Julia Miranda Cueto St.
Green and natural spaces
The municipality officially lists 42 public green spaces. The Parque Ecológico (Ecological Park) stands out, featuring two hectares of green space within the city. A perfect spot to enjoy nature and native flora and fauna, including capybaras near the park’s pond.
The place also offers tree-lined trails, a playground, and open space for exercise and relaxation. The public park is located at the intersection of Delfín Chamorro and Agustín Barrios streets in Fernando’s North Zone (Zona Norte). The park is open to the public from Monday to Sunday, from 05:30 to 20:00, and offers free parking.
Religion and devotion
Another defining feature of this city is the Catholic faith and devotion of its community. Every 27 November, the community celebrates its patron saint, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. During the festivity, the town’s patroness brings the residents together for a celebration filled with prayers and songs.
The Parroquia Medalla Milagrosa (Miraculous Medal Parish), founded in 1942, serves as the community’s main religious centre and gathering place for the faithful. This historic landmark can be visited at Mariscal Estigarribia Avenue, at the corner of Inmaculada Concepción St.
Fernando de la Mora has established itself as a thriving location that values and preserves Paraguay’s cultural heritage. Shaped by its rich history and strong cultural identity, it offers visitors plenty to discover just outside Paraguay’s capital.
