Yaritagua, city capital of Municipality Peña, Yaracuy State, Venezuela
Yaritagua is a city in the state of Yaracuy in Venezuela, located about 172 kilometers from Caracas near Barquisimeto. The urban layout features green hills, sugarcane fields, and river landscapes, with buildings that are modest but well-maintained, interspersed with small shops and open spaces.
Yaritagua was founded around 1630 when Captain Tomás de Ponte brought indigenous families to the area to grow sugarcane, corn, and wheat. The settlement expanded, and in 1691 a church named Santa Lucia was approved, followed by official city status in 1699 after a judge confirmed the land rights.
The name Yaritagua comes from the indigenous roots of the region and its original inhabitants. The city is known locally as the "sweeter city" of Yaracuy because of the extensive sugarcane fields that shape the landscape and the daily work of its people.
The city sits on a major transit route between Caracas and western Venezuela, making it easy to reach. Visitors should prepare for warm weather, though mornings and evenings near the mountains feel refreshing, and nearby natural areas and viewpoints like La Matica are accessible for day trips.
The Cruz del Capuchino on La Matica hill was built in 1950 and offers views of the entire city, valley, and even distant Barquisimeto from that height. Another notable feature is the statue of Santa Lucia by artist José Luis Díaz, which stands as a symbol of faith and is celebrated on December 13, the patron saint's day.
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