World Atlas Venezuela South America locator map and information page

Country Details

Initially discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1498, Venezuela (Little Venice), was named by Amerigo Vespucci in 1499. A Spanish colony until 1811, it was then ruled by a series of dictators until establishing its own constitution in 1961.

This oil-rich country, with a now dependable democracy, still has much of its population living in shanty towns on the northern coast. In addition, the poorest areas of the country are still feeling the impact of Hurricane Mitch (October 1998), when at least 5,000 people died in Venezuela's worst natural disaster in a half-century.

Tourism is still a developing industry, and most visitors are drawn to the beautiful beaches along the Caribbean coastline, or to the wild jungle (rainforest) of the interior. Isla de Margarita is also a popular destination, as well as the high peaks of the northern Andes Mountains.

Quick Facts and Figures

Official Name Republic of Venezuela

Capital City Caracas

Languages Spanish (official)

Official Currency Bolivar

Religions Catholic, others

Flag and description here

Population 23,595,000

Land Area 882,050 sq km (340,560 sq miles)

Highest Point Pico Bolivar, 19,712ft (7,007 meters)

Time and Date in Caracas

Maps

(Printable) South America Continent Map, here

South America Continent here

Venezuela Map, CIA version here

Venezuela Map here

Questions

CIA detailed Venezuela information here!