Itapúa

Itapúa is an administrative department in southern Paraguay covering a large area divided into 30 districts. Encarnación, the capital, sits along the Paraná River and serves as the region's main center.

The department was created in 1906 after the division of Misiones, and then grew through immigration waves. The Carlos Antonio López Railway played a key role in building the region's infrastructure.

The region is shaped by descendants of Italian, German, Ukrainian, French, Japanese, Polish, Syrian, and Lebanese immigrants. This cultural blend shows itself in local food, celebrations, and the daily life of its residents.

The San Roque González de Santa Cruz Bridge connects Encarnación to Posadas in Argentina and provides the main crossing for travelers and commerce. Visitors should be aware this is a border region with international traffic.

The name comes from Guaraní language elements meaning 'tip of stone,' a label connected to the region's founding history. This linguistic tie shows how deeply the area connects to its indigenous roots.

Location: Paraguay

Capital city: Encarnación

Reference: 7

Part of: South America Midwest Integrated Zone

Shares border with: Misiones Department, Caazapá Department, Alto Paraná Department, Misiones Province, Corrientes Province

Website: http://itapua.gov.py

GPS coordinates: -27.33333,-55.88333

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:46