Paraguay has celebrated the return of historical documents, a significant gesture of friendship and respect from the United States and Argentina. The manuscripts, including the Hernandarias manuscript and a diary from 1812, will be displayed throughout September in the American Room of the National Archives in Asunción. Allowing citizens to reconnect with a part of their history.
Historical documents return to Paraguay
President Santiago Peña described the event, held at the Presidential Palace, as a celebration of pages written centuries ago returning to their rightful place in Paraguayan history. The ceremony included the participation of National Congress President Basilio Núñez and Supreme Court President César Diesel, among other dignitaries.
Culture Minister Adriana Ortiz called the restitution of these documents, after a long absence, a momentous occasion. She detailed the significance of the Hernandarias manuscript, dated 1598, in which Hernando Arias de Saavedra denounced abuses within the encomienda system (a system of forced labour) and proposed ordinances to improve the lives of Indigenous people.
Diary of the 1812 Villa Real de Concepción expedition
Ortiz credited the successful return of this valuable colonial-era testament to collaborative work between Paraguayan institutions and the support of the United States government. In addition to the Hernandarias manuscript, Paraguay also recovered a diary from the 1812 Villa Real de Concepción expedition.
This diary, written in October 1812 under the direction of Paraguayan national hero Fernando de la Mora, provides insight into the efforts of the Superior Governing Junta to establish sovereignty, and lay the foundations of the nascent Republic.
Ortiz highlighted the importance of these historical documents, emphasising that they are not merely archival pieces, but rather bridges to the nation’s history, voices speaking of justice, liberty, and dignity. The document’s return resulted from a lengthy inter-institutional process, facilitated by Argentina’s support.
Preserving Paraguay’s heritage
President Peña stated that Paraguay has recovered a voice silenced for over a century, emphasising that protecting the nation’s heritage is a shared responsibility between the state, academia, and citizens. Peña reiterated the government’s commitment to memory and culture, stating that a nation’s understanding of its history is crucial for its future.
The president further highlighted the government’s dedication to strengthening cultural institutions, and combating the illicit trafficking of cultural goods.
