- Most emblematic traditions of the State of Lara
- 1- Tocuyano coup
- 2- The divine Shepherdess
- 3- Tamunangue
- 3- Las Zaragozas and Las Turas
- References
The traditions of the Lara state are rich manifestations of the customs of the region and the religious customs that are preserved in that state. Lara state is located in the center-west of Venezuela.
Its current capital is the city of Barquisimeto, known by the nickname of "Musical City" for the wealth of its musical customs. Lara is a state with a long history, but it was only constituted as it is known today between the years 1881 and 1899.
Procession of the Divina Pastora, one of the most traditional events of the Lara state in Venezuela
Its rich history has influenced the varied traditions and customs of this state. Among them are several games and dances, as well as the celebration of religious acts and the creation of indigenous crafts of the region.
Most emblematic traditions of the State of Lara
1- Tocuyano coup
El Golpe Tocuyano is one of the most recognized music in Lara state. It is influenced by African and Spanish elements and in many ways resembles the joropo dance, which is very popular in the Andean region.
El Golpe Tocuyano is also a folk dance that is part of the so-called “Nationalist Dances”.
These dances recreate the history of the regions and represent them through dance, which contributes to maintaining the national identity of the country.
2- The divine Shepherdess
The procession of the divine shepherdess that takes place in Lara state is the most important religious manifestation in the central western region of Venezuela.
This manifestation is of great importance for the cultural identity of the inhabitants of this state, especially for the communities of Santa Rosa and Barquisimeto.
This procession is a joyous and colorful act that takes place on January 14, every year since 1856.
3- Tamunangue
Tamunangue is a very traditional famous festival of the Lara state in Venezuela. Around this festival, different ethnic and social groups gather to celebrate and explore their identity and pay religious promises.
The Tamunangue consists of a dance game that takes place in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua on June 13.
The main cities of the state participate in this celebration, including the cities of El Tocuyo, Sanare, Quibor and the capital Barquisimeto.
This folkloric expression has transcended the borders of the Lara state and has been represented in different national and international fairs and festivals.
3- Las Zaragozas and Las Turas
Las Zaragozas are celebrated every December 28 as a reason for the day of the holy innocents.
Accompanied by maracas and the sound of drums, the inhabitants of Sanare take to the streets singing and with a yellow flag that accompanies the images of the holy innocents.
The Turas, which are also carried out in the Falcón state, are dramatic dance ceremonies that are linked to different cults such as the cult of nature and reproduction.
In the Turas the indigenous roots of the population are mainly manifested, mixed with African and Spanish influences.
References
- Dinneen M. (2001). Culture and Customs of Venezuela. Greenwood Press, London.
- Guss D. Moors and Christians and Women and Indians: Tamunangue and the Frontiers of Ethnicity. Folk Research Magazine. 2000; 15: 9-14.
- Maddicks R. (2012). Venezuela-Culture Smart !: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture. Bravo Ltd, London.
- Martinez IL Danzas Nacionalistas: The representation of History Through Folkloric Dance in Venezuela. History, Memory and Identity in the Americas. 2002; 22 (3): 257-282.
- Rengifo C. (1976). General Panorama of the Theater Movement in Venezuela. Tramoya. Forum of the Center for Latin American Studies "Romulo Gallegos" and the Permanent Theater Workshop for Latin America.
- Vallecillos JR Díaz M. La Divina Pastora, Cultural and Religious Manifestation of Venezuela. Trial and error. 2008; 35: 51-76.