town, east-central Paraguay. Founded in 1758, the town is situated in the westward extension of the Brazilian Highlands. Its economic base is varied. Oranges, tobacco, sugarcane, and timber are grown in the surrounding area, and livestock is raised and processed. There are sawmills and plants for fruit-oil extraction. The town has a Catholic cathedral and schools, a hospital, and a branch of the Paraguay Bank. It is on a paved highway that links Asunción with Ciudad del Este. Pop. (2002) urban area, 48,733.