Because of its central location in South America, Paraguay  officially the Republic of Paraguay  is sometimes referred to as Corazón de América — Heart of America.^[8]

Landlocked, the country is bordered by Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest. Paraguay lies on both banks of the Paraguay River, which runs through the center of the country from north to south.

As of 2009 the population was estimated at 6.3 million. The capital and largest city is Asunción.

There are at least four versions for the origin of the name Paraguay. 

The literal translation from Guaraní is Para = of many varieties; Gua = from, belonging to or place; Y = water, river or lake.