Culture - Venezuela

The three-century long Spanish hegemony that ended up around 1823 thanks to national hero Simon Bolivar left a vast legacy; language, significant artistic heritage that can be found in the major cities of the country, and obviously the catholic religion, very present in daily life.
The Amazonian regions, efficiently protected with the creation of natural parks, still are a natural untroubled paradise for the indigenous people who are totally devoted to nature and animist worships. The cultural life in Venezuela can be symbolized by its deep traditions and the calendar of celebrations running year-round. Among the events that can't be ignored, the Carnival is a national major celebration taking place over a week before Lent. Also, the Corpus Christi (early June) on the seashore and at the south of Caracas is unmistakably one of the most colourful days of the year; golden-plated costume parades, horned, grinning masks and devil dance (the emblematic Diablos Danzante). In Merida, in the Andine region, the Fiesta del Sol before Ash Wednesday brings out a tremendous energy in the streets with concerts, folk showcases, and bull fights. Finally, the tourist amenities that have developed over the 1970's during the oil economic boost emphasized the beautiful beaches and provide a variety of hikings and excursions to encounter the wildlife.