Ciudad del Este, the vibrant capital of border trade in Paraguay, is making its way to be incorporated into the religious tourism circuit, consolidating as a destination that combines spirituality, culture and economic development. This approach coincides with the 68th anniversary of the city, which is celebrated on February 3.
Within the framework of this growing interest, Ciudad del Este will be part of the routes of the Seventh Paranaense Forum of Religious Tourism, scheduled for April 2025 in Foz de Yguazú, Brazil. This international event will seek to enhance the triple border as a spiritual meeting point, highlighting not only its natural and commercial offer, but also its cultural and religious wealth.
The region is already widely known by the majestic cataracts of Yguazú and shopping tourism, but now adds a new dimension. During the forum announcement, Eliseu Rocha, coordinator of the working group, said: “We want this forum to be the most important one made so far,” underlining the strategic potential of the triple border in spiritual tourism.
In addition, the Secretary of Tourism of the Government of the State of Paraná, Márcio Nunes, highlighted the ability of religious tourism to boost the local economy: “We are focused on taking advantage of the potential of religious tourism, not only because of its spiritual dimension, but for its capacity of generating employment and strengthening regional trade ”.
The event will be held in the Omar Ibn al-Katab Mosque of Foz Do Yguazú, being the first time that an Islamic space will house this forum, which reinforces the multicultural and diverse character of religious tourism in the region.
Eastern City already has several key points that could be consolidated as outstanding religious destinations: Eastern Mosque Alkhaulafa al-Rashdeen. Located on Alejo García Avenue, this imposing mosque is a pilgrimage center for the Islamic community and an emblematic tourist attraction. Built with the contribution of thousands of Muslim Arabs residing in the triple border, it was inaugurated in 2015 and combines architectural majesty with spirituality.
Church Holy: Located in Area 4, this Church protects an iconographic mural declared National Cultural Heritage. Its iconostasis and representations of saints and biblical events make this temple a unique space for reflection and spiritual learning.
Cathedral San Blas: with a structure that evokes Noah’s ark, this temple designed by Bolivian architect Javier Querejazu is another religious icon of the city. Inaugurated in 1966, its architecture combines European influences and contemporary details after the spare parts made in 2015.
