The official date of the foundation of Maturin is December 7, 1960. However, historical archives show an original foundation date of 1722. Its founder was a Spanish governor and it looks like the Spanish originally came to this area on a mission to convert the Indians who lived near Maturin.

Plaza Bolivar

In front of the Plaza Bolivar is the church San Simon. It’s the oldest church in Maturin, built some time between 1884 and 1887.

This is the Governor’s residence, also facing Plaza Bolivar. The situation with governor is quite interesting. The current governor is a woman named Yelitza, a pro-Chavez (most of them are) candidate. The former governor is a man who was nicknamed “Gato,” meaning “cat.” He was beloved by the people of Maturin. He was pro-Chavez, but lost his standing with the president when he fought for his people in a dispute over water. The water had gotten polluted and wasn’t safe to consume in any way. The national government denied it, but Gato knew better. Now, he’s gone. Retired, never to be heard form again and a new minion, Yelitza, is in power here

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The cathedral Nuestra Senora del Carmen. Construction began in 1961, completed in 1981. Roman style.

Separation of Church and State?

The plaza in front of the cathedral.

13JAN13. Maturin, Venezuela.