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about Margarita |
The island was named La Margarita by the
conquistadores who discovered it in 1498. They decided to
settle there because the soil was so fertile and the island
was full of wealth.The original inhabitants, the Guaqueri
indians, welcomed the Spaniards with open arms unaware that
they were in fact invaders. Freedom from invasion came in
1811 and Margarita became the first free province of the
Spanish domain. The main historical feature of Margarita
Island is
Castillo de San Carlos Borromeo - Pampatar. This 17th century fort protected
the town and harbour from foreign and pirate attacks. The
fort's thick stone walls and bronze canons still watch over
the beach, harbour and Caribbean Sea. Opposite the fort is
the
Inglesia de Santisimo Cristo del Buen Viaje. This church
had great significance for the sailors and fisherman of
Margarita. There is a legend that many years ago during the
colonial era a ship carrying a valuable crucifix was unable
to leave the harbour. It was finally left here as a last
resort.
I f you want to do more than just visit the Island then
see our sister site
Caribbean Pearl.
Please join
our blog and write about your experiences of Margarita. |
