Costanera de Pilar
A walk on the flood walls.
FF MM — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Iorran93pontobeerre — CC0 · Iorran93pontobeerre — CC0 · gomezminck — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Iorran93pontobeerre — CC0
Pilar is a quiet city on the River Paraguay in the southwest of the country, capital of Ñeembucú Department and about 258 km from Asunción. The river separates it from Argentina, and it is known for its long waterfront, old houses and many squares, with colourful umbrellas over one street now a familiar picture of the town. It was founded on 12 October 1779 as Villa del Ñeembucú, later becoming Villa del Pilar. Under Dr Francia its port was the only one allowed for foreign trade, mainly in yerba mate. It became a city in 1908, and in 1930 Paolo Federico Alberzoni built a textile complex that continues as Manufactura de Pilar. In 1983 a flood covered practically the whole city, so protective walls were built, which now form the waterfront. You walk along the Costanera de Pilar on top of the flood walls, with wetlands and wide water ahead that change colour at sunset. The Ñeembucú stream splits the city, and on calm days it mirrors the basilica's tower and red roof. In the old streets stand the town hall with its timber balcony, trees and low houses, and the area is also known for fishing. It is 31 km in a straight line from the Humaitá Ruins, so give a day to both, and the paved road has been complete since 2000. Summer heat can reach 40 °C, so go out in the morning and evening. Bring mosquito repellent near the water. Sunset on the Costanera is the best part of a short visit.
A walk on the flood walls.
Colours over the road.
A mirror for the basilica.
Capital of Ñeembucú Department, on the River Paraguay
Half a day is enough, or a full day with Humaitá.
Morning and evening, as summer heat can reach 40 °C.