Paraguay's Humaitá seeks to exhibit historic 'Cristiano' cannon upon return from Brazil
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Paraguay's Humaitá municipality requested the national government to exhibit the historic "Cristiano" cannon in their city upon its return from Brazil.
- The cannon was a key artillery piece during the War of the Triple Alliance and was taken to Brazil as a war trophy.
- Displaying the cannon in Humaitá would boost national historical memory and cultural tourism, according to local officials.
The municipality of Humaitá in Paraguay is seeking to host the historic "Cristiano" cannon, which Brazil has announced it will return. Local officials plan to formally request the national government and heritage institutions to designate Humaitá as the exhibition site for the artillery piece once its repatriation is finalized.
Humaitá holds significant historical importance as a key location during the War of the Triple Alliance (1864-1870). The "Cristiano" cannon played a crucial role in defending the fortress there, having been used earlier in the defense of Curupayty against Brazilian naval advances. After the Paraguayan evacuation, the cannon was taken to Brazil as a war trophy, becoming part of Brazil's historical patrimony.
According to a municipal statement, the cannon's return would hold special significance for national historical memory, particularly for Humaitá, which is considered a primary site of Paraguayan resistance during the war. The interim mayor, Telesfora Villalba, emphasized that the cannon's presence would strengthen the community's historical identity and enhance cultural tourism in the region. A replica of the cannon was inaugurated in Humaitá in November 2024, highlighting the city's ongoing connection to this historical artifact.
Humaitá be considered as a place for the exhibition of the piece, under the conditions of security and preservation that correspond.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.