Located in one of the most Northern positions in South America, Venezuela is the gateway to Central and North America. The geographic location of Venezuela acts as a form of pathway for culture spreading throughout the Americas. Southern American culture travels up and through to Panama, Guatemala, and Mexico. Central and North American influence funnels down into the Southern continent.
Because of this geographic gateway, Venezuela has had a unique history with influence from a variety of countries and native peoples. Spanish colonization had a large impact on Venezuela, similar to other South American countries. The development of native and foreign cultures clashed in Venezuela, which became one of the first colonized South American countries.
Venezuela Facts
1. There are Many Animals Only Found in This Country
A major portion of Venezuela is part of the Amazon Rainforest. The rainforest is home to a variety of species of plants and animals. Because of the unique climate in Venezuela, the rainforest has many small reptiles, amphibians, and rodents that are found exclusively in this country. While the rainforest crosses borders into multiple countries, the animals found in Venezuela tend to stay within the country. Frogs and Lizards find a special home to Venezuela because they can travel from the rainforest to some of the deserts in the country, depending on the weather.
Because of the diverse animal ecosystem, the government in Venezuela has made over 50% of the country’s land protected, an interesting Venezuela fact. This keeps land in its most natural form and protects from deforestation which drives animals out of their homes.
2. This Country Provides Oil to the World
While many countries are focusing on the transition from oil-based industry and cars, Venezuela currently makes a large amount of money from its oil exports, a fun Venezuela fact. Selling oil to other countries around the world has been very effective in boosting the economy, which was once considered the weakest in South America.
Along with the benefits to the entire country, the Venezuelan people can access the world’s lowest gasoline prices, costing them only $0.01 per liter. The prices are made so low to the people as a movement of the government. Reducing the cost of oil inside their country, the citizens can use their money on food and products for their homes and families.
3. Venezuela was one of the First Independent South American Countries
The Spanish colonizers that traveled down to South America for fortunes and religion fought against the natives to secure control over the land. Venezuela was one of the first countries to have colonies, after two major battles between the two countries. However, the Venezuelan people did not enjoy the command of Spanish. They had formed a secret government that developed an army to fight against the Spanish conquistadors. The success of the rebellion hosted by Venezuelans caused the Spanish to be forced out of the country. Venezuela has been an independent country for over 200 years, an interesting fact about Venezuela.
4. European Traditions with Venezuelan Celebration
Catholicism was spread into Venezuela during the times of colonization. This religion spread among the people and is still practiced today. While this religion that began in Europe influences people’s lives, the Venezuelans have introduced their cultural twists to holidays and traditions.
Christmas is one of the most important holidays in Catholicism. Because of this, there are massive family celebrations in Venezuela. One of the most unique traditions to the country on Christmas is when the families get together and roller-skate to church. They also celebrate with traditional food, clothing, and dance that is unique to Venezuela.
5. African and Spanish Music on The Rise
The trade routes between Europe, Africa, and South America introduced one of Venezuela’s most iconic cultural influences. The music from this country is a blend of African and Spanish styles. The music is very unique to listen to and even has many styles that no other country has used before. Venezuelan music has become a popular style of music throughout the Americas, where other countries try and copy the style, but none are as successful. The music is very upbeat, with a faster tempo, so it is perfect dancing music.
6. There is No Hot Water in The Home
It is not common to find a Venezuelan home with a water heater. The people have been accustomed to taking cold showers for many generations. This is a common practice in Central and South America. In Venezuela, it is most widely accepted this way. As the country modernizes, it is common for newer houses and buildings to include hot water heating units. A fun fact about Venezuela is that many of the older buildings do not make this upgrade, and the people do not seem to mind.
7. It is a Very Dangerous Country
Venezuela has been rated internationally and domestically as one of the most unsafe countries to live in or visit. There are many acts of violence committed by gangs. Many Venezuelans rated their country a very unsafe place to live and call for the government to take action against crimes in the cities. The relaxed road laws also make it a very dangerous place to drive. While it is unsafe in the cities, many of the popular tourist destinations to see natural beauty are extremely safe because of the government involvement with protecting the sacred lands.
8. The Oldest and Largest Lake in South America is in Venezuela
Even though Venezuela is home to a large portion of forests, it is also the location of Lake Maracaibo. This lake is the largest in South America. Researchers have also dated the lake’s existence back to around 30 million years ago. The lake has become an important part of the local economy, creating many jobs in the fishing and boating industry. Many ships transport goods across the lake. Some of the largest and longest bridges in the continent stretch across Lake Maracaibo, proving great architectural feats for Venezuela. Many beaches surround the lake, making it a popular place for relaxation for tourists and locals.
I hope that this article on Venezuela facts was helpful. If you are interested, visit the Country Facts Page!
