Learn the History of Isla Margarita

Are you a history buff? Be sure to check out these locations on Isla Margarita when visiting Caracola Beach and Spa Resort.

Ruins of Caranta Fort

Caranta Fort is located on top of La Caranta Hill and was built between 1586 and 1595. It was originally built to shut off access to the bay and shoreline, but before it could perform this duty, it was destroyed during an attack by Dutch pirates in 1626.

Today, the ruins of Caranta Fort still have a few original cannons pointing towards the ocean that visitors can experience. La Caranta Hill also provides visitors with a world class view of the bay which is always filled with sailboats from around the world.

San Nicolas de Bari Church

The first church that was originally built on this site was looted and burned down by pirates in 1555. From there, worship was held in a home until San Nicolas de Bari Church was built 400 years later.

San Nicolas de Bari Church showcases the history of this island and is an important landmark to the locals, which makes this church a must see site when visiting.

Francisco Narvaez’s Contemporary Art Museum

Located in the heart of downtown Porlamar on Isla Margarita, you will find Francisco Narvaez’s Contemporary Art Museum. This museum was opened in 1979 to honor Francisco Narvaez’s work, who was known as one of the greatest Margaritan sculptors.

The museum contains a collection of oil paintings plus wood, stone, and bronze sculptures created by Narvaez during time spent in Caracas, Paris, and Italy. You will find contemporary works by other artists here as well.

The Diocesan Museum

The Diocesan Museum is located next to the La Virgin Del Valle Church, showcasing a diversity of offerings granted by the faithful devotes of the Virgin.

Here guests can admire all the offerings from the parishioners, the dresses of the Virgin, objects that belong to the church, and paintings where numerous scenes depict the Virgin Mary and her miracles.

The museum is open from 9 am to 12 pm, & again from 2 pm until 5 pm.