Encarnación is a cut-rate shopping center, the heart of the Paraguayan Carnaval and the gateway to the nearby Jesuit ruins at Trinidad and Jesús. The old center used to function down near the river. When the nearby Yacyretá Dam was constructed, businesses and offices relocated to higher ground in preparation of the flooding which was, and still is to occur. Years later, the sluice gates have not yet been opened. Currently occupying the old town among decaying public buildings is a massive tawdry bazaar. Among the chaos is the Fería Municipal market, great for a cheap eat. On higher ground, the pleasant and functional modern town has excellent shops, a nice plaza and modern facilities.