The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela does not become a destination for Russian tourists very often. The reason for this is the long flight and not too cheap air tickets. However, the natural and historical sights and traditions of Venezuela may seem interesting and meaningful to those travelers who are not afraid to go to South America.
Heritage from the UNESCO lists
The Mapoyo people have lived in this area for a long time. Once the Indians of this tribe inhabited the endless savannah of the state of Bolivar between the rivers Villacoa and Caño Caripo. The Mapoyos did not have a written language, and over the centuries their culture and customs were passed down from generation to generation through oral tradition.
The non-literate dialect gave rise to the original tradition of Venezuela. Its keepers tell old legends and traditions of everyday life to young people, thereby preserving the cultural heritage of their tribe and contributing to the strengthening of self-awareness.
Modern Venezuela is developing dynamically and an increasing percentage of the population is leaving for cities. This becomes the cause of the extinction of villages, and the places of traditional habitation of the Mapoyo Indians are rapidly emptying. To prevent the disappearance of the ancient rite, UNESCO has included the oral tradition of Venezuela and the Mapoyo tribe in the World Intangible Heritage List.
Multicultural Catholics
The main religion of the locals is Catholicism. Compliance with Christian norms of behavior is a tradition in Venezuela, and therefore the church is the main cultural, religious, political and social center here. It is customary to come to the service with the whole family, and such an appearance is usually an important event. Venezuelans certainly dress up when going to the temple, and bring flowers and sweets there.
The family is of no less importance in the life of a resident of the republic. As a rule, Venezuelans have many children, with whom not only mothers spend a lot of time, but also a strong half. The marriages of the inhabitants of the country are often mixed, and in any family there is white, Hispanic, Negro, and Creole blood.
In the rhythm of the carnival
As elsewhere in Latin America, it is in the tradition of Venezuela to hold a carnival on the eve of Lent. It is celebrated in every settlement of the country, and the inhabitants of even the smallest village organize festive processions and colorful dance marathons.
