[Paraguay Souvenirs] 5 Recommended Heartwarming Handwoven Lace and Embroidery Gifts!
Paraguay is a country in the heart of South America, where 90% of the population are Mestizos—descendants of mixed indigenous Guarani and Spanish ancestry. It is known for its thriving handicraft industry. A popular tourist spot is the "Trinidad and Jesús Ruins," a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting of the movie "The Mission."
Handwoven lace called "Ñandutí" and "Ao Po'i," a cotton fabric beautifully embroidered with geometric and floral patterns, are highly recommended souvenirs, especially for women. When you visit Paraguay, make sure to enjoy shopping for these traditional crafts.
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[Paraguay Souvenirs] 5 Recommended Heartwarming Handwoven Lace and Embroidery Gifts!
1. Ñandutí Lace
Ñandutí is a traditional lace from Paraguay that has been gaining popularity recently. The word Ñandutí means "spider web" in the language of the indigenous Guarani people. This delicate lacework, traditionally made by women, has been passed down through generations and is now one of Paraguay's most famous handicrafts.
Many designs are inspired by nature, such as the sun and flowers, and come in vibrant South American colors as well as soft, gentle tones. Since every piece is handmade, large pieces can be expensive, but smaller ones are affordable and make perfect souvenirs. The cute embroidery makes Ñandutí a wonderful gift from Paraguay. If you visit Paraguay, be sure to take a look!
2. Cotton Textile "Ao Po'i"
Ao Po'i is a traditional cotton textile that represents Paraguay. It features beautiful embroidery on cotton fabric and is used to make shirts, blouses, tablecloths, curtains, and decorations. The name Ao Po'i comes from the Guarani words "Ao" meaning "cloth" and "Po'i" meaning "delicate."
Spanish embroidery was introduced in the 17th century and, in the skilled hands of Paraguayan women, evolved into this art form, which is now recognized worldwide for its beauty.
The city of Yataity in the Guairá Department is especially famous for producing Ao Po'i. Ao Po'i shirts and blouses are considered formal wear and are worn at official events and parties. If you visit Paraguay, why not take home an Ao Po'i piece as a memory of your trip?
3. Tereré Tea
Tereré is a type of mate tea traditionally prepared with cold water. It is a traditional drink of the Guarani people and is widely enjoyed in Paraguay. The traditional way to drink it is by placing the tea leaves in a cup made of wood or animal horn, adding cold water, and sipping through a special straw with tiny holes at the tip.
When visiting Paraguay, you’ll find tea shops all over the city where you can try tereré. A set of tereré tea leaves, a cup called guampa, and a straw called bombilla makes for a perfect souvenir! You can enjoy the taste of Paraguay at home, and it’s also a great gift for family. Supermarkets sell powdered mate tea, as well as a variety of flavors like mint, anise, and lime.
4. Paraguayan Harp (Arpa Paraguaya) CDs
Guarania is a musical style from Paraguay that originated in the early 1900s. Unlike other lively Latin music, it is characterized by its melancholic and sentimental melodies. It is performed using the Paraguayan harp, known as Arpa Paraguaya.
If you visit Paraguay, take time to listen to a live performance. If you find a song you like, a CD makes a beautiful souvenir and a memorable piece of your trip.
5. Handicrafts and Goods
Handicrafts are also popular souvenirs in Paraguay. Markets are filled with wooden cups, ornaments, and figurines. Items engraved with the Paraguayan flag or the shape of the country make great gifts for family and friends. Each piece is handmade and one of a kind, so it’s fun to find something truly unique. Enjoy shopping while sightseeing!
◎ Summary
Paraguayan souvenirs are colorful and heartwarming, such as lacework and wooden guampas (cups). They reflect the cheerful and bright spirit of the Paraguayan people. Find your favorite item and take home wonderful memories of your trip!
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