Asunción

In 1542, Spanish settlers fled Buenos Aires after indigenous groups destroyed their colony. They traveled 1,000 miles upriver to a tiny fort called Asunción, and that decision changed South American history forever.

Spanish explorer Juan de Salazar founded Asunción in 1537 while searching for a missing expedition. He named it after the Feast of the Assumption, celebrated that same August day. The settlement became Spain's headquarters for exploring the continent. 

Over the following decades, expeditions left Asunción to establish over 65 cities, including the rebuilt Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Santa Cruz de la Sierra. That's why Paraguayans proudly call their capital the "Mother of Cities."

Independence came peacefully on the night of May 14, 1811. Rebels gathered secretly at the home of Juana María de Lara and convinced the Spanish governor to surrender without a fight. You can visit that same house today.

The War of the Triple Alliance from 1864 to 1870 devastated the young nation. Paraguay fought Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay all at once. The country lost most of its population, and rebuilding took generations. Today, monuments honor those who survived.

Asunción remains one of South America's least-visited capitals, which means fewer crowds and friendlier locals eager to share their culture.

Start at the Casa de la Independencia, the small white house where rebels planned freedom over two centuries ago. Kids can spot colonial furniture and old paintings inside. Walk to the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes and watch the changing of the guard ceremony. 

The Palacio de los López, a grand white palace on the riverfront, lights up beautifully after dark.

For a break from history, the Jardín Botánico y Zoológico covers 270 acres with walking trails, exotic animals, and shady spots for picnics.

Grab a warm chipa from a street vendor. These cheesy breads made with cassava flour have a slightly sweet anise flavor kids tend to love. Try sopa paraguaya, a "soup" that's actually dense, cheesy cornbread. 

Cool off with tereré, the national drink of ice-cold herbal mate. Locals carry thermoses everywhere, and sharing tereré with new friends is basically a Paraguayan tradition.