Mérida

Mérida is a state in western Venezuela, organized into 23 municipalities that follow the line of the Venezuelan Andes. The territory combines mountain ranges, valleys, and plains with elevations climbing to 2933 meters (9623 feet) above sea level.

The region became an official state in 1864 after the Federal War, when it shifted from provincial status to a federal entity within Venezuela. This transformation reorganized the political structure of the western Andean region.

The Universidad de Los Andes brings together students from across the country and shapes the intellectual rhythm of the region through its campuses and libraries. Academic life forms a core part of daily activity in the cities where the university maintains its facilities.

The territory contains several national parks and protected areas suitable for walking, climbing, and exploring different climate zones. The wide range of altitudes calls for proper preparation and adjustment to thinner air at higher elevations.

Agricultural traditions adapt to the different altitude zones, allowing coffee cultivation in middle elevations and cacao in warmer valleys. The temperature shifts between tiers create conditions for various crops within a short distance.

Location: Venezuela

Inception: 1864

Capital city: Mérida

Elevation above the sea: 2,933 m

Reference: ME

Part of: Andean Region

Shares border with: Zulia, Trujillo, Barinas State, Táchira

Website: http://merida.gob.ve

GPS coordinates: 8.51667,-71.26667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:08