El Tesoro

Hidden away in an unassuming corner of the Paraguayan town of Areguá lies a communal treasure. Old train tracks lay intertwined between vines and Paraguay's iconic red, iron-rich soil. The soil of Areguá not only serves as the foundation for the economy, but it is the very source of life for El Cántaro Bioescuela Popular.

Bright red strawberries pop out the soil—buildings structured by handcrafted bricks. Areguá, known as the town of creativity, is surrounded by its soil in almost all aspects. The soil fuels the local economy through strawberries and pottery, but it also serves as the building block for El Cantaro.

Famous church in the Areguá center.

In 2007, the founders sought to create an educative space focused on social transformation through education, art, and music. The school began hosting its first activities on the sidewalks of Areguá or in private homes. However, the founders soon realized that they needed a place to call home. A permanent place where others could call home and find success in learning the arts and music.

Credit to Colegio Cantaro website.

Madre Tierra (Mother Earth) is a common phrase heard around town. But El Cantaro epitomized it. The earth and objects around them became the mother that would give birth to this new school. In 2012, the founders purchased a plot of land and began the task of constructing a school from the very earth beneath their feet. Walls and roofs were assembled from the very materials that lay around them. Random objects that lay clutter in the houses of others or items on the street were all repurposed. Even an old 20th-century carriage wheel was incorporated as a window. De-labeled wine bottles were used as windows, and even a new guitar found its way into the outlay of one of the outer walls.

One of the school's mottos says, "One person cannot build a house, but 10 people can build 10 homes." Rather than raise money to fund the construction, they took a more meaningful approach: they turned to the community, using local resources and the hands of students and neighbors to build together. If ancient methods have long surpassed the fluctuations of society, climate, and culture, why not use them again? So, instead of using imported or synthetic materials, they focused on low-carbon, low-footprint resources. The direct involvement of students instilled a sense of confidence that they can form an impact, no matter how big or small. It wasn't just a way for the students to connect with nature and the community but with each other.

Left: red clay is pulled from this well. Right: red clay is really everywhere!

When I visited El Cantaro, I was struck by their utility. The walls woven from local straw and dried dirt. Glass of different shades of clay from different backyards made the wall appear as if it rose from earth itself. The Cantaro is like the extending hand of nature, encouraging us to reconnect with traditions and ancient techniques that have defined this place. It is a place that people can call home.

They let me have a go at it.

Expert with over 20 years experience. Within seconds he can transform a blob of clay into artwork.