Barcelona

This administrative center sits along the west bank of the Neverí River in Anzoátegui state, forming part of a larger conurbation with the nearby settlements of Guanta and Puerto La Cruz. The city occupies a geographical gap that links the Caribbean coast directly to the inland plains, positioning it as a key node for movement and trade in eastern Venezuela.

The settlement emerged in 1671 when colonial authorities merged two smaller communities, Cristobal de Cumanagoto and Cerro Nuevo, naming the unified town after the Spanish city. Over the following centuries, it evolved into an economic center linking cattle ranching, coffee exports, and later coastal petroleum activities.

The San Cristóbal Cathedral and the Cajigal Theater remain central to the city's religious and artistic life, drawing visitors interested in worship and local performances. Both buildings reflect the way residents engage with their faith and theatrical traditions in daily life.

Access to the center comes by overland routes connecting the coast to interior regions, and visitors will find lodging spread across different neighborhoods. Those exploring on foot should wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as the climate remains warm throughout the year.

The city serves as a dispatch point for cattle and coffee from the interior, while its proximity to coastal oil fields shapes the local economy in unexpected ways. This dual role connects traditional agriculture with modern energy operations in a single region.