Barcelona, Venezuela

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Barcelona is the capital of Anzoátegui state in Venezuela. It sits on the northern coast near the western part of the Cordillera and is part of a larger metro area with Puerto La Cruz, Lechería and Guanta, home to about 950,000 people. The city has a mix of old and new buildings because it grew at different times since it was founded in 1671.

History and highlights
Barcelona began as Nueva Barcelona del Cerro Santo, first settled by the Spanish explorer Joan Orpí in 1638 and later rebuilt a short distance away. It played a role in Venezuela’s struggle for independence in the early 1800s. Important old sites include Plaza Bolivar, Plaza Miranda, the Iglesia El Carmen and the Cathedral of Saint Christopher. The House-Fort near the center tells the story of conflicts from that era, including a tragic event in 1817. The city’s religious and cultural life includes the Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen and the local museums and historic houses.

Geography and climate
The Neverí River runs through the city and has caused floods in the past. The area is near several beaches and is a gateway to Mochima National Park, a region of islands and coastlines popular with visitors. Barcelona has a hot, semi-arid climate with a wet season from June to September and a dry season from December to April.

Today’s city and attractions
Barcelona blends historical charm with modern development. The El Morro area is a large canal and marina complex with lots of homes, hotels and boatyards, making it a popular spot for tourists and sailors. The Maremares Resort and Spa is one of its notable developments. Shopping is convenient at Centro Comercial Plaza Mayor, a colorful mall inspired by Caribbean style.

What you’ll find nearby
The city is served by Generál José Antonio Anzoátegui International Airport, with flights to statewide destinations and Caracas. Buses connect the city with the rest of Anzoátegui, and ferries link to nearby islands and Margarita Island.

Sports and culture
Barcelona is home to the Marinos de Anzoátegui, a successful basketball team that plays at the 5,500-seat Polideportivo Simón Bolívar. The José Antonio Anzoátegui Stadium hosts major football matches, including the Copa América 2007 and the South American U-20 Championship in 2009. The area also features historic theaters, the Museo de la Tradición and other sites that tell the city’s rich history.

population and basics
In 2019, the city had about 454,200 residents, with a metro area population of around 1,049,000. The city covers about 76.5 square kilometers and sits at a low elevation near sea level. The postal code is 6001 and the area code is 0281. Its time zone is UTC-4.