San Timoteo

San Timoteo is the administrative center of Baralt Municipality, situated along the shores of Lake Maracaibo in Zulia State, Venezuela. The town lies between Mene Grande to the east and the Misoa River to the north.

The area saw a turning point in 1917 when the San Lorenzo refinery was built by Caribbean Petroleum Co, marking Venezuela's first refinery operation. This project transformed the region's economic direction and ties to the oil industry.

The San Benito celebration runs from late December through early January and reflects Afro-Catholic traditions that shape local holidays and community gatherings. Residents actively keep these customs alive through family participation and public festivities.

The town connects to nearby Mene Grande by paved road and has local landmarks such as the Divine Child Jesus Church and a Cultural House. The lakeside location means hot, humid conditions most of the year, so light clothing and sun protection are helpful.

The town experiences consistently high temperatures year-round due to its tropical location along Venezuela's largest lake, shaping how daily life unfolds. This climate makes it one of the warmer lakeside settlements in the region.