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Church of San Francisco de Yare

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Historical site
—°7
Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)

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The Church of San Francisco de Yare is a significant religious landmark located in San Francisco de Yare, Miranda State, Venezuela. Constructed in the 18th century, it is most famous for its association with the "Dancing Devils of Yare" (Diablos Danzantes de Yare), a religious festival that takes place on Corpus Christi. This tradition, which blends African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences, was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2012. The church itself features a colonial architectural style with a simple yet elegant facade and a single bell tower. Inside, it houses several religious images and altars that are central to the local community's spiritual life. Over the centuries, the building has undergone various renovations to preserve its historical and cultural value, serving as a symbol of regional identity and faith for the people of the Tuy Valley.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242526272625252525252524
Rain mm20147488510111513495936240

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Church of San Francisco de Yare is a colonial building that can be visited during mass or at designated hours. Its interior is rich in religious art and history.
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Typical hours
Churches typically open around service times, often in the morning and afternoon. During the famous Dancing Devils festival in June, special hours apply.
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Photography
Indoor photography is generally allowed without flash to protect the artworks. During services, be discreet and refrain from using flash.
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Time needed
Visiting the church itself takes about 30 to 45 minutes. If you join a guided tour or explore the surroundings, allow one hour.
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Combine with
The church is located in the town of Yare, which can be combined with other colonial churches in the region. The Dancing Devils festival in June is an additional highlight.
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Getting there
Yare is about a one-hour drive from Caracas, reachable by bus or car. The church is centrally located in town and easily accessible on foot.
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Insider tip
Plan your visit during the Dancing Devils festival in June to experience the traditional dances. Outside of festival times, the church is quieter and more contemplative.

Geography

Coordinates
10.23120, -66.75840

Facts

  • The church construction was completed in 1714.
  • It is the primary center for the Dancing Devils of Yare celebration.
  • UNESCO declared the tradition a World Heritage in 2012.
  • The patron saint of the church is Saint Francis of Paola.
  • The building is located in Miranda State, in the Tuy Valley.
  • The architecture is a classic example of Venezuelan colonial style.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

El Ávila National ParkEl Ávila National Park14 km · EExplore →
Hacienda La TrinidadHacienda La Trinidad15 km · SEExplore →
Casona IbarraCasona Ibarra18 km · SEExplore →
Warairarepano Cable CarWarairarepano Cable Car19 km · SEExplore →
Botanical Garden of CaracasBotanical Garden of Caracas19 km · SEExplore →
National Pantheon of VenezuelaNational Pantheon of Venezuela21 km · SEExplore →
Poliedro de CaracasPoliedro de Caracas22 km · SEExplore →
Casa GuipuzcoanaCasa Guipuzcoana25 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Church of San Francisco de Yare (7)

Cerro Pozo Hondo🌿 nature

This peak provides a wide view over the rolling landscape of Miranda state.

Topo Lele🌿 nature

A distinctive mountain peak in the San Francisco de Yare region, good for nature observation.

Topo El Zamuro🌿 nature

A hill in the tropical landscape of Yare, often circled by local birds of prey as its name suggests.

Parque Acuático Agua Sol🎡 recreation

A popular water park with slides and pools, offering a cool escape in the hot climate of Yare.

Capilla Caujarito📍 landmark

A small chapel in the Caujarito sector, serving as an important gathering point for the local faithful.

Iglesia Parroquial San Francisco de Paula⛪ religious

The main church of Yare is closely linked to the UNESCO-protected tradition of the Dancing Devils.

Casa de los Diablos⛪ religious

The headquarters of the Dancing Devils of Yare preserves the masks and regalia of this world-famous tradition.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What makes this church special?
It is an important religious center closely linked to local traditions.
Can one visit the church daily?
Yes, it is usually open for prayer, but mornings are handy for tourist visits.
Is photography allowed?
Photos of the facade are okay; inside, be respectful and do not take photos during services.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, as in all churches, shoulders and knees should be covered.
Are there dining options nearby?
In the immediate area, you will find small local food stalls and simple cafes.
Church of San Francisco de Yare: where is it located?
Church of San Francisco de Yare is located in Venezuela.
Church of San Francisco de Yare: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cerro Pozo Hondo, Topo Lele, Topo El Zamuro.
Church of San Francisco de Yare: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Church of San Francisco de Yare: why is it worth visiting?
The Church of San Francisco de Yare is a significant religious landmark located in San Francisco de Yare, Miranda State, Venezuela.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Warairarepano Cable Car — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Warairarepano Cable Car
A cable car in Caracas that takes visitors to the summit of El Ávila mountain.
Poliedro de Caracas — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Poliedro de Caracas
A striking geodesic dome that serves as the most important multipurpose venue for concerts and sporting events.

Nature

Los Roques Archipelago National Park — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Los Roques Archipelago National Park
This archipelago in the Caribbean Sea includes over 300 coral islands and sandbanks.

More places

Hacienda La Trinidad — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Hacienda La Trinidad
A former coffee plantation that is now a thriving cultural center and historic park.
El Ávila National Park — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
El Ávila National Park
This mountain range separates Caracas from the Caribbean coast.
Casona Ibarra — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Casona Ibarra
A charming historic hacienda from the 18th century, located within the Central University grounds.
Botanical Garden of Caracas — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Botanical Garden of Caracas
This facility in Caracas preserves an extensive collection of tropical plant species.
National Pantheon of Venezuela — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
National Pantheon of Venezuela
The National Pantheon is the final resting place of Venezuelan national heroes, including Simón Bolívar.
Casa Guipuzcoana — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Casa Guipuzcoana
A colonial trading house in La Guaira that symbolizes the economic history of the region.
Macarao National Park — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Macarao National Park
This park is located near Caracas and serves as an important water catchment area.
Guatopo National Park — Church of San Francisco de Yare (Venezuela)
Guatopo National Park
This park is located in a mountainous region and serves as a central water reservoir for the Caracas metropolitan area.