Discover Altos: Crafts, Market and Culture

Altos, also known as San Lorenzo de la Cordillera de los Altos, lies about 60 kilometers from Asunción. Crafts and cultural history offer two defining ways to experience a stay here: the market on the Plaza de Romerías displays a variety of handicrafts and takes place every second Saturday; you should confirm the exact date locally before visiting. The Centro Cultural Espacio Expresión brings culture together with educational activities. The town’s history and its biographical connection to the artist Luis Alberto del Paraná add further points of interest. Depending on whether you are interested in handicrafts, cultural activities or historical connections, there are different ways to plan your visit.

Crafts at the Market

The market on the Plaza de Romerías in Altos takes place every second Saturday; you should confirm the date locally before visiting. Check locally for the relevant date before your visit so you can plan your travel dates accordingly. Members of the Asociación de Artesanas display wood carvings, openwork, textiles, crochet, encaje ju and ñandutí. The variety of work makes the market a specific place to visit for travelers who want to explore handicrafts during their stay.

Carving and Its Historical Connections

In Altos, colorful carvings of animal figures, masks and mythological beings are made from Timbo wood. The carving tradition began in connection with the festivities of San Pedro and San Pablo. The material identifies the craft’s foundations, while the figures and masks represent its range of motifs. The connection to the festivities answers a different question: it places the beginnings of the carving tradition in its historical context.

Local History and Biographical Connections

Altos was founded in 1538 on the site of the Indigenous settlement “Yvytyrapy” and is also the birthplace of the artist Luis Alberto del Paraná. Together with the historical connection between the carving tradition and the festivities of San Pedro and San Pablo, three distinct points of reference emerge: the town’s founding, the beginnings of a craft and an artist’s biographical connection to Altos. Each offers a different perspective on the town’s cultural history.

Cultural Activities at the Centro Cultural Espacio Expresión

The Centro Cultural Espacio Expresión is a free, open space for the community and visitors. Visitors can learn, experience art and discover cultural and educational initiatives in the region. The program includes courses, workshops, seminars and educational activities for children, young people, professionals and socially disadvantaged groups. Unlike the display of handicrafts, the focus here is on learning and participation. If you plan to attend a particular course or workshop, check the current offerings in advance.

For planning purposes, the two cultural points of interest mainly differ in their format: the market displays handicrafts, while the cultural center offers educational activities and courses. The market takes place on a recurring Saturday schedule; if you have a specific activity in mind at the center, check what is currently on offer.

Discover more destinations: Piribebuy, San Bernardino, Caacupé, Caraguatay, Itacurubí de la Cordillera, Arroyos Y Esteros, Atyra, Tobati.

For the overview of the wider region: Cordillera.