Nueva Esparta, Island state in northeastern Venezuela
Nueva Esparta covers three main islands off northeastern Venezuela: Margarita, Coche, and Cubagua, with Margarita holding the largest area and most residents. These territories stretch across the Caribbean Sea and feature dry climates with flat coastal strips.
This territory gained status as a Venezuelan state in 1909 after decades of regional governance shifts since the colonial era under Spanish rule. Cubagua Island experienced a pearl boom in the 16th century that ended quickly.
Place names across the three islands recall Spanish mariners and Catholic saints, visible in churches and squares throughout coastal villages. Fishermen still speak local expressions born from handling pearls and nets.
An underwater pipeline system from mainland Venezuela delivers fresh water to residential and commercial zones on Margarita. Visitors should know that boat connections between islands can vary depending on weather and season.
Cubagua holds Nueva Cádiz, the first city founded in Venezuela. Its ruins now sit abandoned along the coast, bearing witness to the brief pearl fishing prosperity of the 16th century.
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