South America is home to 436 million people across a continent which spans nearly 7 million square miles, and one of its countries has an interesting population layout. The majority of people live in its capital city.
Asuncion is Paraguay’s capital and most populous city. In 2024, the population of the Asunción metro area is projected to be 3,569,000—over 50% of the country’s 6.86 million.
This makes it Paraguay’s most densely populated zone and its economic powerhouse, contributing an astonishing 70% to the National GDP.
Situated on the eastern shores of the Paraguay River, the city is separated from the Occidental Region of Paraguay and Argentina by the vast Paraguay River and the Bay of Asuncion to the northwest.
As one of South America’s most ancient cities, Asuncion holds the title of “the Mother of Cities” due to its long-standing history as a continuously inhabited location within the Rio de la Plata Basin.
It served as the departure point for Spanish colonial expeditions, which led to the founding of many key cities, including Buenos Aires’ second establishment and others such as Villarrica, Corrientes, and Santa Fe.
Asuncion is considered one of the prime cities for investment in construction and services, contributing to its status as one of the fastest-growing economies in the region.
Despite historical challenges, Asuncion remains the heart of national and cultural activities.
Major state resolutions and projects are issued, and the country’s banking, economic, cultural, diplomatic, social, union and industrial entities are centralised.
The Globalisation and World Cities Research Network has classified Asuncion as a “Gamma City.” It is not only Paraguay’s capital but also its primary port and the epicentre of industrial, political, economic, and cultural activity in the country.
For international travellers, Asuncion ranks amongst the world’s most budget-friendly urban destinations. According to InSight Crime’s evaluations, it holds the title of the third-safest capital city across Latin America, outpaced only by Buenos Aires and Santiago.
