In the Department of Boquerón, forts, museums, and historic trails tell the story of the Chaco War, but each has a different focus. At Fortín Boquerón, you can explore the history of the battle, exhibitions, and trails leading to trenches. Other forts represent distinct military roles or forms of commemoration. The Parque Nacional Teniente Agripino Enciso is also a vast protected area whose history goes back to an earlier fort. Explore Boquerón through specific places and different historical perspectives.
Fortín Boquerón: Battle History and Museum
Fortín Boquerón is a historic site associated with the Battle of Boquerón and the Chaco War. The Paraguayan army recaptured it on September 29, 1932, after twenty days of intense fighting. This is considered a major victory and the beginning of the Chaco War. The date is commemorated annually in Paraguay.
The Fortín Boquerón Museum displays wartime artifacts, historical documents, maps, photographs, and weapons used in the conflict. Admission is free; confirm that the museum is open before visiting. The exhibits focus on historical materials, while the trails around the fort offer another way to explore the past.
Historic trails at Fortín Boquerón lead to old trenches used by both armies. If you are interested in military history, they offer a tangible connection to the fighting of the time: the museum presents exhibits, while the trails take you to the positions that remain.
Other Forts and Places of Remembrance
The Museo Toledo at Fortín Toledo displays historical items found there, contemporary photographs, military objects, and commemorative busts. If you are planning a visit, check the current access arrangements before you travel.
Fortín Isla Po’i served as a strategic assembly point for the Paraguayan army during the Chaco War. Fortín Trébol offers a historical tourism experience in the Chaco: a visit provides historical context about the war and commemorates the fighters. These sites add other roles and forms of remembrance to the battle history of Fortín Boquerón.
A Protected Area with Former Fort Names
Parque Nacional Teniente Agripino Enciso is a protected area in the Department of Boquerón, covering more than 40,000 hectares. Its succession of names reflects the site’s military history: it was first Fortín Teniente Agripino Enciso and, before that, Fortín Siracua. Paraguay captured Fortín Siracua in 1934 during the Chaco War. The protected area’s present name thus connects it with two former names and a historical event.
Paraguay: More Perspectives on History and Nature
The Jesuit mission of Santísima Trinidad del Paraná reveals another facet of Paraguay’s cultural heritage. Founded in 1706, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. The mission is designed in the Baroque style and built from sandstone blocks. Its preserved Plaza Mayor was historically the center of religious, cultural, artistic, social, economic, and civic activities. A museum with historical collection items is housed in the former sacristy.
Paraguay’s natural heritage also includes the Refugio Biológico de Mbaracayú, which covers approximately 1,800 hectares and protects native flora and fauna. The 970-meter-long “La Esperanza” trail is the starting point for a tourist route through restored forests, wetlands, and areas of high biodiversity. Visitors can explore the interpretation center, the boardwalk, and a lookout point specially built for observing birds and other animals. The experience also includes guided hikes, wildlife and birdwatching, and educational workshops.
Discover more destinations: Quintana, Catriló, Cordillera, Itapúa, Department of San Pedro, Paraguari, Amambay, Lambare.
For the broader travel overview: Paraguay.
