It is considered that Paraguay is one of the South-American Catholic countries, but it does not mean it is the only one religion spread within the country. What about Protestants, which comprise nearly 10 per cent of population? In particular, Protestantism is represented here by culture of Mennonites, which settled and have established own communities since the beginning of the 20th century. Nowadays, besides their main function, these settlements serve as places of tourist attraction, annexing to Asuncion, San Lorenzo, Ciudad Del Este and other country resorts. Mennonite colonies were settled by Russians, Canadians and Germans mainly and thankfully to Paraguayan authority, which allowed this in a purpose of development of Chaco region (resolving the problem of decreasing population and bad condition of industry and economy). In their turn, colonists were happy to have religious freedom, rights to speak and write native language, even for the cost of living in dry lands.
In addition, the idea of oil deposits in the area of Chaco and dissatisfaction with Bolivian intervention contributed to the necessity of settlements' arrangement. Hence, establishment of Mennonites culture was like a win-win situation, when both Paraguayans and foreigners got what they wanted in a benefit of each other.Most of the tourists coming to Paraguay must go to the "community of Filadelfia" - a picturesque religious colony that was founded by Mennonites in the late 1920s, located in the western part of the country and serving as the capital of Boqueron Department. In particular, it was founded by Russian Mennonites, who got off Soviet Union and escaped Stalin's repression policy.
Being situated in Gran-Chaco, it was established very close to the area of Chaco war, but, surprisingly, it has not been affected by military actions. Although, it cannot be said about the Second World War, during which German colonists have divided this city in order to support Nazis. Nowadays Filadelfia operates the museum of local history and, by the way, certain colonies are preserved around the city, such as: Chulup?, Toba-Pilaga, Lengua, Ayoreo and Sanapan?. Additionaly, there are modern sites of attraction like camping site 5 km away from Filadelfia and known as Parque Trebol. There is also one radio station in Filadelfia and one supermarket (which is not a surprise, when learning that population of the city is nearly 10 thousand residents), which appears to be the last stop to buy some products before going to Chaco area.Other Mennonite colonies include Loma Plata, the oldest settlement, imbued with the traditions of the founders, and the New Holbshtadt - a spot, which is the best place to buy Native American crafts.
Source: http://travel.ezinemark.com/mennonites-culture-in-paraguay-18e2b091766.html
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