11 Famous People from Paraguay You Should Know About

1) Josefina Plá

Josefina Plá was a renowned Paraguayan poet, playwright, and novelist known for her impactful contributions to literature and culture. Born in 1909 in the city of Asunción, Plá dedicated her life to exploring the complexities of Paraguayan society through her writings.

Plá’s works often reflected Paraguay’s turbulent political and social climate, including themes of oppression, dictatorship, and inequality. She fearlessly confronted the atrocities committed during the dictatorship of Alfredo Stroessner and the struggles faced by the Paraguayan people. Plá’s poignant words became a voice for the silenced, inspiring others to challenge the status quo.

Notable works by Josefina Plá include “The Frog” (La Rana) and “Hombre de Jade” (Jade Man), which garnered critical acclaim and established her as one of Paraguay’s most esteemed literary figures.

Plá’s legacy extends beyond her writings. She was a founding member of the Women’s Federation of Paraguay, advocating for gender equality and women’s rights. Her courage and dedication paved the way for future Paraguayan women to fight for their rights.

Today, Josefina Plá’s impact on Paraguay‘s cultural and literary scene remains significant. Her works continue to be studied and celebrated, reminding us of the power of literature to challenge and provoke change.

2) Luis Alberto del Paraná

Luis Alberto del Paraná, born in 1926, was a Paraguayan musician considered one of the country’s greatest artists. He formed the group Los Paraguayos, which was internationally successful, and his music has been featured in many films and television shows.

Del Paraná’s music blended traditional Paraguayan folk music with popular Latin American styles, and he helped bring Paraguayan music to a broader audience. He also worked as a composer, writing many of the songs performed by Los Paraguayos.

In addition to his music career, del Paraná was also involved in politics, supporting the ruling Colorado Party. He was even invited to perform at the inauguration of Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes in 2013.

Del Paraná passed away in 1974, but his legacy lives on through his music and influence on Paraguayan culture. He is remembered as a true Paraguayan icon and a beloved figure in Latin American music history.

3) Carlos Franco

4) Chiquitunga

5) Leryn Franco

Leryn Franco is a Paraguayan model, actress, and former athlete who competed in the javelin throw event. She gained worldwide attention during the 2008 Beijing Olympics for her stunning beauty, even though she did not qualify for the finals.

Born in Asuncion in 1982, Franco began practicing athletics at a young age and soon became a national champion. She participated in the 2004, 2008, and 2012 Olympics, improving her personal best with each event.

Aside from her athletic achievements, Franco has also made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She has starred in several films and TV shows, including a leading role in the Paraguayan movie “7 Cajas.” Franco has also posed for several magazines, including Sports Illustrated. Despite her fame, Franco remains a humble and grounded person. She is actively involved in charitable work, supporting causes such as children’s health and education.

In a country known for its strong national identity and historical figures such as José Gaspar Rodríguez De Francia, Carlos Antonio López, and Francisco Solano López, Leryn Franco stands out as a symbol of modern Paraguayan success. She has inspired many young girls and boys to follow their dreams and work hard to achieve their goals, much like the famous Paraguayan soccer player José Luis Chilavert or the beloved Catholic priest Padre Fidel Maíz.

6) Paola Maltese

Paola Maltese is a well-known Paraguayan fashion designer who has gained international recognition for her elegant and contemporary designs. She studied fashion design in Argentina and Paris and started her career by opening her first boutique in Asunción, Paraguay. Her work has been showcased in Paris, New York, and Milan fashion shows.

Fine materials, bold colors, and intricate details characterize Maltese designs. Her creations are sought after by celebrities, politicians, and members of royalty around the world. Maltese has won numerous awards for her work and has been recognized as one of the most influential women in Paraguay.

Even though Maltese comes from a humble background, she has become one of the world’s most successful and respected fashion designers. Her story inspires many Paraguayans who dream of success in their chosen fields.

Maltese is one of many notable Paraguayans who have significantly contributed to their country and the world. From José Gaspar Rodríguez De Francia and Carlos Antonio López, who were both influential presidents of Paraguay, to famous athletes like José Luis Chilavert and politicians like Francisco Solano López, Paraguay has produced many accomplished individuals who have left their mark on history. Read more about Paraguayan Spanish explained.

7) Rogelio Livieres

Rogelio Livieres was a bishop in the Catholic Church who played an influential role in Paraguay’s political and religious landscape. Born 1945 in Paraguay, Livieres was ordained as a priest in 1978 and later became a bishop in 2004.

Livieres was known for his conservative views and outspoken criticisms of the Catholic Church’s direction under Pope Francis. He advocated for a return to traditional Catholic teachings and was critical of the Church’s handling of sexual abuse scandals.

Livieres also played a significant role in the politics of Paraguay, which the Catholic Church has heavily influenced since its founder, José Gaspar Rodríguez De Francia. He was a vocal supporter of the regime of Carlos Antonio López and his son Francisco Solano López, considered among the most influential leaders in Paraguay’s history.

Despite his controversial views, Livieres remained respected in Paraguay until he died in 2015. He is remembered for his dedication to the Catholic Church and contributions to the country’s political and cultural heritage.

Interestingly, Livieres is not the only famous person from Paraguay who has impacted the country’s religious and political history. José Luis Chilavert, the legendary goalkeeper and captain of Paraguay’s national soccer team, has also been outspoken on political and social issues, using his fame to advocate for social justice and environmental causes.

8) Oscar Cardozo

Oscar Cardozo is a well-known Paraguayan football player who has made a name for himself at home and abroad. Born on May 20, 1983, in Ciudad del Este, Cardozo has played for several clubs, including Newell’s Old Boys, Benfica, and Trabzonspor. He is also a member of the Paraguayan national team.

Cardozo’s talent on the field has earned him comparisons to Paraguay’s other football legends, such as José Luis Chilavert and Francisco Solano López. He has been praised for his strong shooting skills and holds the record for the most goals scored in the UEFA Europa League by a Paraguayan player.

Despite his success on the pitch, Cardozo has also faced his share of challenges. He has struggled with injuries at various points in his career, and his departure from Benfica in 2014 was not without controversy. However, he remains a beloved figure in Paraguayan football, and his contributions to the sport are widely recognized.

Cardozo’s achievements in football serve as a testament to Paraguay’s strong sporting culture, which has produced numerous talented athletes over the years. Paraguayans have shown a fierce dedication to physical activity and competition from the country’s earliest days under leaders like José Gaspar Rodríguez De Francia and Carlos Antonio López.

Cardozo is just one of many individuals who have carried on this proud tradition, and his success on the field will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Paraguayan athletes.

9) Larissa Riquelme

Larissa Riquelme is a Paraguayan model and TV personality who gained international fame during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Born in 1985 in Asuncion, Riquelme quickly rose to prominence when she became the face of Paraguayan soccer, thanks to her unwavering support for the national team. She gained attention for her enthusiastic and patriotic display, often wearing revealing outfits and carrying a mobile phone between her cleavage during games.

Riquelme’s dedication to her country and passion for soccer made her a beloved figure in Paraguay and a symbol of national pride. Her fame transcended borders, and she was featured in numerous magazines and TV shows worldwide.

Despite her rise to fame, Riquelme remained grounded and used her platform to advocate for social issues in Paraguay. She supported causes such as children’s health and education, much like the other famous Paraguayans who have made significant contributions to their country and the world, such as José Gaspar Rodríguez De Francia, Carlos Antonio López, José Luis Chilavert, and Francisco Solano López. Riquelme’s impact on Paraguay’s cultural landscape is undeniable, and she continues to be an inspiration to many.

10) Augusto Roa Bastos

Augusto Roa Bastos is one of Paraguay’s most celebrated writers and is widely regarded as one of the most influential Latin American authors of the 20th century. Born in 1917 in Asuncion, Roa Bastos was heavily influenced by his country’s political landscape, which was dominated by dictatorial rule for much of his life.

Roa Bastos gained international recognition for his novel, “I, the Supreme,” which tells the story of Paraguay’s first dictator, José Gaspar Rodríguez De Francia. The book won the prestigious Cervantes Prize in 1989 and cemented Roa Bastos’ reputation as one of Latin America’s most important literary figures.

Roa Bastos’ other works, including “Son of Man” and “Hijo de hombre,” also explore Paraguay’s complex political and social issues. His writing often critiques the legacy of former dictators, including Carlos Antonio López and Francisco Solano López, and shines a light on the struggles faced by the country’s marginalized communities.

In addition to his literary accomplishments, Roa Bastos strongly advocated democracy and human rights in Paraguay. His life and work inspire many in his home country and beyond, including notable figures like football goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert.

11) Francisco Solano López.

Francisco Solano López is a highly controversial figure in Paraguay’s history. He served as the president of Paraguay from 1862 until he died in 1870, during which time he led the country through the devastating Paraguayan War.

López is often portrayed as a dictator who led his nation to ruin. Under his rule, Paraguay saw significant economic and political turmoil and a decline in civil liberties. His aggressive foreign policy and military actions ultimately led to the Paraguayan War, in which the country suffered immense losses and was devastated.

However, there are differing views on López and his legacy. Some argue that he was a nationalist who fought against foreign intervention and defended Paraguay’s sovereignty. They emphasize his efforts to modernize the country and build infrastructure and his commitment to social reform.

Regardless of one’s perspective, it is undeniable that López profoundly impacted Paraguay and its history. His leadership and the consequences of the Paraguayan War continue to shape the country today. He is often studied and discussed alongside other influential figures in Paraguay’s past, such as José Gaspar Rodríguez De Francia, Carlos Antonio López, and José Luis Chilavert.