House of the Congress of Angostura

The House of the Congress of Angostura in Ciudad Bolívar is a cornerstone of Venezuelan and Latin American political history, serving as the site for the pivotal 1819 assembly. On February 15, 1819, Simón Bolívar inaugurated the Congress here, delivering his most famous speech and outlining the constitutional basis for a united Republic of Gran Colombia. Built in the late 18th century, the building is a prime example of Spanish colonial architecture, featuring thick adobe walls, a central courtyard, and large balconies overlooking the historic Plaza Bolívar. Originally intended as a government palace for the Guayana Province, it became the heart of the revolutionary movement during the decisive years of the War of Independence. Today, it functions as a museum and historical archive, preserving original furniture, 19th-century maps, and the desk where the Liberator worked. Located on the banks of the Orinoco River, the house symbolizes the transformation of Venezuela from a colony into a self-governing nation. Its preservation allows visitors to explore the legislative origins of the country within a space that retains its 200-year-old character.

History & landmarks

Angostura Bridge

The first suspension bridge over the Orinoco River, connecting Ciudad Bolívar with the rest of the country.

Orinokia Bridge

The second major bridge over the Orinoco, representing a strategic link for heavy industry.

More places

Fortín El Zamuro

A fortress on a small hill in Ciudad Bolívar, used during military conflicts.

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Cerro Bolívar Iron Mine

A legendary mountain of almost pure iron ore, the discovery of which marked the beginning of Venezuela's massive steel industry.

Matanzas Industrial Port

A heavy-duty industrial port that directly serves the massive steel and aluminum plants in Ciudad Guayana.

Caruachi Hydroelectric Plant

A modern and powerful hydroelectric plant on the Caroní River, crucial for powering Venezuela's heavy industry.

Bauxilum Alumina Plant

The crucial link in Venezuela's aluminum production chain, where mined bauxite is converted into alumina.

Sidor Steel Plant

The gigantic Siderúrgica del Orinoco steel plant is the industrial heart of Ciudad Guayana and Latin America.

Venalum Aluminum Plant

A massive primary aluminum production facility that benefits greatly from the abundant hydropower of the Caroní River.

Alcasa Aluminum Plant

A pioneer of the Venezuelan aluminum industry in Ciudad Guayana, specializing in the production of aluminum sheets and foils.