Guanare

Guanare is the capital of Portuguesa state in central-western Venezuela, set where the Andean foothills meet the wide plains of the Llanos. Known as Venezuela's spiritual capital, it is closely tied to the Virgin of Coromoto, the country's patron saint, and serves as the region's administrative and agricultural centre.

Founded in 1591, Guanare grew around its colonial core of Plaza Bolívar, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Coromoto and the state government palace. The city's defining religious landmark is the National Shrine of Our Lady of Coromoto, located roughly 25 kilometres outside the centre, marking where the Virgin is said to have appeared in 1652.

The compact centre is best explored on foot, with the cathedral, Plaza Bolívar and nearby museums and cultural spaces reflecting both colonial history and llanero traditions. Surrounding neighbourhoods and rural parishes add cattle, rice and sugar-growing landscapes that shape local life.

Guanare's economy centres on agriculture and livestock, including rice, sugarcane, sesame, cotton, sorghum and cattle, supported by institutions such as the Universidad Nacional Experimental de los Llanos Occidentales Ezequiel Zamora. Local festivals, joropo music and religious celebrations keep the city culturally active throughout the year.

For travellers, Guanare is a gateway to the Venezuelan plains and a major pilgrimage destination, while its role as state capital makes it relevant for government, agribusiness and regional business visits.