Paraguayan harp
The country's emblematic instrument: diatonic, all wood, with a bright, nimble sound.
What it is
It usually has 36 strings, though there are versions with anywhere from 32 to 43; it is made entirely of wood and has no pedals, so the tuning is diatonic. It is played seated, and the great harpists pull off effects that imitate birds, trains or waterfalls. Together with the guitar it is the backbone of the polka and the guarania, and you'll hear it at festivals, restaurants and serenades.
Did you know…?
June 9 is National Paraguayan Harp Day, the anniversary of the death of Félix Pérez Cardozo, whose hometown was declared the 'National Cradle of the Paraguayan Harp'. In Guaraní it is called Paraguái ysapu. It is the country's national instrument and arose when Guaraní musicians reshaped the European harp that the Jesuits had brought to the missions in the late 17th century.
Listen to
Harp versions of 'Pájaro campana' and 'Tren lechero'; recordings by Félix Pérez Cardozo, Luis Bordón, Digno García and Nicolás Caballero.
Music & dance
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 2 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.