Ocumare de la Costa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ocumare de la Costa
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| San Sebastián de Ocumare de la Costa | |
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 Ocumare de la Costa
Location in Venezuela
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| Country |  Venezuela |
| State | Aragua |
| Municipality | Ocumare de la Costa de Oro Municipality |
| Population | |
| • Total | 7,000 |
| • Demonym | Ocumareño/a |
| Time zone | UTC−4 (VET) |
Ocumare de la Costa is a small, beautiful town on the coast of Venezuela. It is the main town of the Ocumare de la Costa de Oro Municipality. You can find it about 25 miles north of Aragua. People often just call it Ocumare.
This charming town sits at the base of the Venezuelan Coastal Range. It is also part of the amazing Henri Pittier National Park. This means it has unique natural beauty all around it. The main jobs here are growing cocoa and fishing. The valley where Ocumare is located leads right to the warm Caribbean Sea.
Contents
History of Ocumare
Ocumare de la Costa has a rich history. It was first settled by Europeans in the 1600s. A Spanish captain named Lorenzo Martínez Madrid led this effort. The town was officially made a part of the Spanish colony in 1731.
Before the Spanish arrived, the area was home to native tribes. These tribes were led by a local chief known as Cacique “Barriga”. They lived in harmony with the land for many years.
Geography and Nature
Ocumare de la Costa is special because of its location. It is nestled between mountains and the sea. This creates a unique environment. The town is part of the Henri Pittier National Park. This park is Venezuela's oldest national park.
Henri Pittier National Park
The park is famous for its amazing variety of plants and animals. It has many different types of forests. These include cloud forests and dry forests. The park is home to over 500 types of birds. It also has many mammals, like jaguars and monkeys. Protecting this park is very important.
Beaches and Coastline
The coastline near Ocumare is stunning. It has several beautiful beaches. These beaches are popular for swimming and relaxing. The clear waters are also great for snorkeling and diving. The sea here is part of the Caribbean Sea.
Economy and Life in Ocumare
The people of Ocumare de la Costa mostly work in two main areas. These are growing cocoa and fishing. Both are very important to the town's economy.
Cocoa Production
The land around Ocumare is perfect for growing cocoa. Cocoa beans are used to make chocolate. Farmers here have been growing cocoa for hundreds of years. The cocoa from this region is known for its high quality. It is an important crop for the local economy.
Fishing Industry
Fishing is another major activity in Ocumare. The town's location on the Caribbean Sea makes it ideal for fishing. Local fishermen catch many types of fish. This fresh seafood is sold in markets and used in local restaurants. Fishing provides jobs for many families.
Culture and Traditions
Life in Ocumare de la Costa is peaceful and connected to nature. The town has a strong sense of community. Local traditions often involve music, dance, and food. These reflect the mix of indigenous, African, and Spanish cultures.
Local Festivals
Ocumare celebrates various festivals throughout the year. These events bring the community together. They often feature traditional music and dances. These festivals are a great way to experience the local culture.
Food and Cuisine
The food in Ocumare is delicious. It often includes fresh seafood. You can find dishes made with local fish and shellfish. Traditional Venezuelan foods are also popular. These include arepas and empanadas.
Getting to Ocumare
Reaching Ocumare de la Costa can be an adventure. The road to the town winds through the mountains of Henri Pittier National Park. This drive offers incredible views. It is a popular route for tourists.
See also
In Spanish: Ocumare de la Costa para niños
