Some of Pombo's characters, in the Pombo Foundation on Calle 10 in La Candelaria.

Rafael Pombo is remembered mostly as a children's poet. However, this multitalented man was also an ambassador, translator and philosopher - some of his poetry was criticized by the Catholic Church for its deep existentialist doubt.

Today, Pombo, who lived from 1833 to 1912, is probably best known for some of the characters he created, including the tadpole and the poor old woman who had nothing except for everything she could wish for.

Colombia recently commemorated the centennial of Pombo's death, on May 5, 1912.

Perhaps Pombo's most visible legacy, apart from his books, is his elegant childhood home on Calle 10 in La Candelaria. The house is now a foundation providing activities for children.

Children crowd a balcony in the Rafael Pombo Foundation in La Candelaria.

Books including Pombo's 'Magic Book' in the Rafael Pombo Foundation.

The Great Poet

A girl rides an iguana in the Rafael Pombo house in La Candelaria.

The Rafael Pombo Foundation is on Calle 10, beside the historic opera house. Tenth Street is one of the best-preserved streets in La Candelaria.