About Venezuela:
Venezuela, officially the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, is a country on the northern coast of South America with a population of around 31 million as of 2026. It borders Colombia to the west, Brazil to the south, Guyana to the east, and the Caribbean Sea to the north.
Venezuela is known for its vast oil reserves (the world’s largest), diverse geography including the Andes Mountains, Amazon rainforest sections, and Caribbean coastline, as well as natural wonders like Angel Falls (the world’s highest waterfall).
Venezuela was one of the most economically advanced countries in South America by the mid 1950’s. Hugo Chavez, who styled himself as the leader of the socialist revolution, was president of Venezuela from 1999 up until his death in 2013. The communist/socialist rule all but bankrupted the country…..as it does everywhere that communism/socialism are implemented.
Nicolás Maduro assumed the presidency of Venezuela following the death of Hugo Chávez in March 2013. As Chávez’s handpicked successor and vice president, Maduro was sworn in as interim leader before winning a narrow, special election in April 2013. His tenure has been marked by severe economic crisis, international sanctions, and accusations of authoritarian rule. On January 3, 2026, U.S. military forces arrested Maduro in Caracas, acting on a 2020 U.S. federal indictment for narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. He was transported to New York to face charges, marking a controversial, high-profile incident described by U.S. officials as a law enforcement operation.
As of early 2026, Venezuela is navigating a period of profound, uncertain transition following the removal of Maduro. there is a mix of cautious optimism, deep economic distress, and structural instability. Daily life remains challenging for many due to long-term economic mismanagement, broken infrastructure, and lasting poverty.
Catholic Places of interest in Venezuela:
Venezuela, like many South American countries, has been predominantly Catholic since the arrival of the Spaniards but, as is the case in many other countries on this continent, the Church has suffered from both colonialization and dictatorships.
Betania: 20th century apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary ; home of the mystic Maria Esperanza
Guanare: The Basilica of Our Lady of Coromoto, patroness of Venezuela
Los Teques: site of a Eucharistic miracle.