Templo de San Joaquín y Santa Ana
A Jesuit church from 1747 that still stands and is still in use, freshly restored, with 18th-century carved statues.
What it is
In the small town of San Joaquín, north of Caaguazú, a little-known treasure survives: the church the Jesuits built for the reducción (mission settlement) of the Tobatín Indigenous people. Adobe walls, a timber frame and a high altar with 18th-century carved figures make up an ensemble of enormous value that still serves as a parish church. After years of decay, it was restored by the National Secretariat of Culture and reopened in April 2025. Stepping inside, you feel the intimate scale of the mission towns, far from the great ruins of the south.
What to see and do
- The high altar and 18th-century carved statues
- The restored adobe walls and timber frame
- Holy Week in a mission church that is still active
- A stroll through the town and its rural surroundings
Did you know…?
The National Secretariat of Culture describes it as the only Jesuit church still standing in the country that continues to function as a parish.
The community campaigned for its restoration for more than a decade before work began.
During Holy Week, traditional processions are held, such as the kurusu rape (Way of the Cross).
History
Jesuit records state that Tobatín people were gathered here in 1746 and that the first Mass was held on July 30 of that year; the church dates from 1747, just a few years before the expulsion of the Society of Jesus (1767–1768). Restoration began on December 26, 2022, with an investment of nearly ₲15 billion, and the church was rededicated on Friday, April 11, 2025.
Tips
- It's a working church: respect Mass times and ask at the parish office or the town hall to visit the interior.
- It's far from the main highways: combine it with Coronel Oviedo or Caaguazú and fill up on fuel beforehand.
- Ask permission before photographing statues and altarpieces, and don't use flash.
Parish church; visiting hours depend on the parish (check before you go).
Best time: Holy Week, to experience its traditions; autumn and spring, to travel in mild weather.
Activities
Festivals and events here
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Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 6 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.