Inside Pombero Róga: Mythology And Art In Atyra, Paraguay’s Cultural Heartland

In the Cordillera department, at city of Atyrá, which is 61 kilometres east from the country’s capital Asunción, you can find Pombero Róga. A captivating tourist attraction where mythological art blends seamlessly with lush natural surroundings, offering visitors an immersive experience of culture and environment. In this place, you can find Paraguayan mythology figures such as, Pombero, Jasy Jatere, and Kurupi made of recycled art.

The history behind Pombero Róga

At the summit of Monte Alto hill in Atyrá, stands Pombero Róga, the “House of the Pombero.” Conceived by 85-year-old sculptor and painter Miguel Ángel Alarcón Pibernat. The site offers a striking fusion of Guaraní mythology, recycled art, and lush natural landscapes. This blend of cultural storytelling and ecological creativity makes Pombero Róga both a distinctive tourist attraction and a living testament to Paraguay’s heritage. 

What can you find at Pombero Róga?

Pombero Róga brings together sculptures inspired by Guaraní mythology. It also features imaginative works made from recycled materials. Nature trails wind through forests and stone tunnels. Visitors can explore the rustic House of the Pombero. Along the way, they encounter playful recycled artworks. These include the figure of San Itario, a witty play on the Spanish word sanitario (toilet).

Visitors can also discover the Yryvukeha gallery. Its name evocatively means “where the crows sleep”. The experience blends local folklore, creativity and natural beauty. It remains a distinctive destination, even for visitors unfamiliar with the region.

The museum showcases the full breadth of Miguel’s talent, from oil and acrylic paintings to sculptures and recycled creations, all available for purchase. “I began with the art gallery, but now Pombero Róga has stolen the spotlight,” the artist reflects.

Contact and opening hours  

The establishment is open Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 18:30, and on Sundays from 09:00 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 18:30. Admission costs ₲10,000 (approximately US$1 to US$2) for adults and children over 10 years of age. 

For visitors, the journey through Pombero Róga is not only an encounter with folklore but also a reminder of how heritage and imagination can shape a community’s identity. In the heart of Cordillera, the House of the Pombero celebrates Paraguay’s spirit through myth and art.

For further information or bookings, please call 0981 873-441.

You can learn more about Paraguay mythology on: Guaraní Legends #2, The Curse Of Tau And Kerana: The Genesis Of The Guaraní Monsters