The city of Nueva Germania, a district in Paraguay’s department of San Pedro approximately 300 kilometres north of Asunción, celebrated its 139th anniversary of foundation on 23 August, 2026, with a series of events for students, officials, and residents. The day’s festivities included a traditional student parade, the inauguration of public works, cultural activities, a community luncheon, and a large public festival.
A day of celebration
One of the main events of the celebration was the traditional student parade. Pupils from various educational institutions in the area marched before local authorities and the public. The parade provided a special focus for the anniversary, demonstrating the commitment of the younger generation to the community’s traditions and identity.
The full day of activities brought together families and residents from across the district to commemorate their shared history and culture. Following the parade, officials inaugurated new local infrastructure projects, and the community gathered for a celebratory lunch and festival.
Historical German roots
The community was founded in 1887 by Bernhard Förster and is historically recognised for its German origins. Förster, along with his wife Elisabeth Förster-Nietzsche, sister of the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, established the settlement with the aim of creating a model German community in the New World. Over the years, the city has forged its own unique identity, which is marked by the coexistence of Paraguayan and German traditions.
Today, Nueva Germania is also known as the capital of yerba mate (a traditional caffeinated herbal drink), an industry integral to its history and economic development. This agricultural focus has become a cornerstone of the modern district, blending with its distinctive European heritage.
San Bernardino marked 145 years
Recently, the city of San Bernardino marked its 145th anniversary with a series of commemorative activities. San Bernardino was founded on 24 August 1881 during the presidency of General Bernardino Caballero by German and Swiss settlers. Over the ensuing decades it developed into one of Paraguay’s leading centres of summer tourism, drawing visitors to its lakeside setting and distinctive European-influenced architecture.
