Information
Landmark: Monumento a la Amistad (Monument to Friendship)City: Ciudad del Este
Country: Paraguay
Continent: South America
Monumento a la Amistad (Monument to Friendship), Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, South America
The Monumento a la Amistad is a concrete arch structure located in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, spanning the Paraná River. It commemorates the friendship between Paraguay and Taiwan.
Visual Characteristics
The monument consists of a large, white concrete arch with a span of 190 meters and a height of 40 meters. The arch is supported by two pillars on either side of the river. The surface is smooth concrete, and the structure is illuminated at night.
Location & Access Logistics
The monument is situated on the Paraná River, bordering Paraguay and Brazil. Access from Ciudad del Este is via Avenida Generalísimo Franco, which leads directly to the monument's base on the Paraguayan side. Parking is available in designated areas near the monument. Public transport options include local bus lines that service the Avenida Generalísimo Franco route.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of the Monumento a la Amistad began in 1989 and was completed in 1990. It was a gift from the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Paraguay. The purpose was to symbolize the enduring relationship and cooperation between the two nations.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can walk across the lower section of the arch for views of the river and the surrounding cityscape. Photography of the structure, particularly at sunset and during nighttime illumination, is a primary activity. The area around the monument is suitable for short walks.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available at the base of the monument on the Paraguayan side. Shade is limited to the immediate vicinity of the monument's base. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the area. Food vendors are typically present near the monument, especially during peak hours.
Best Time to Visit
For photography, the late afternoon leading up to sunset provides optimal lighting conditions on the monument. The months of April to September generally offer drier weather with lower humidity. There are no tide-related considerations for visiting this structure.
Facts & Legends
A specific detail often overlooked is that the monument's design was inspired by the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Local lore suggests that couples who walk across the monument hand-in-hand are guaranteed a lasting bond.
Nearby Landmarks
- Shopping China (0.8km West)
- Parque de las Aves (1.2km Southwest)
- Itaipu Dam (10km North)
- Friendship Bridge (1.5km North)
- Casino Acaray (2.1km Southwest)