A museum, an exhibition center and a grand libary all in one, the Biblioteca Bolivariana is one of Merida's most enticing attraction. Though the building's modern architecture sticks out from its colonial-era surroundings, the priceless historical documents and fascinating exhibits inside the Biblioteca give it an air of historical importance of its own.

Son et Lumiere show at Plaza Bolivar Merida Architects Duilio Passariello and Pablo Rodriguez created another stunning show of light and sound in Merida State, Venezuela. At 8 p.m. on august 3rd...

The only historical village in the Andes, Los Aleros exhibits traditional housing, agricultural implements and methods and customs of European colonies in Venezuela.

Though construction of the Cathedral began in the early nineteenth century, it was delayed by two earthquakes, the War of Independence, and internal political conflicts. Work was finally completed in 1958, and the Cathedral stands today as a symbol of Merida and its history.

The oldest religious structure in Merida, Our Lady of Carmen Church stands close to the Plaza Bolívar. Visitors marvel at its colonial architecture and its historical significance--the church is a seat of the Carmelite Brotherhood.

Devoted to the famous classical composer, Parque Beethoven is a small urban refuge with a statue that honors Beethoven and a clock made of flowers.

Located in Merida's cultural arts complex, this small modern art museum features original works from many of Venezuela's most famous artists.

Visitors to the Monumento-Parque La Loca Luz Caraballo (Mad Luz Caballo Memorial Park) should visit the nearby museum dedicated to this legendary personality. As indicated on a sign at the entrance, the "peroles" or possessions of La Loca herself are on display, along with an exhibition of indigenous and colonial art as well as the chance to "listen to some worn-out music". Also onsale there are objects of antiquity as souvenirs, and delicious locally produced blackberry wine and smoked cheese.

Interesting historical sectors remain in this town founded in 1620 and rebuilt in 1838. Among them is the Plaza Bolívar, with its monument to the Liberator erected in 1995. To the side of the square is the parochial church with its simple colonial architecture, small altarpiece, and images of Our Lady of Sorrows and Christ in the Sepulchre.

This theme parkis devoted to Xamú or Jamú, which was the place where Captain Juan Rodríguez Suárez first founded the city of Mérida in 1558. Now known as San Juan de Lagunillas, it depicts a typical indigenous village, similar to those that once existed at these latitudes when the Spanish invaded the continent.

One of Merida's most-visited attractions, the Chorros de Milla Zoo is a home to nearly 150 species of animals.

Standing at the site of an old sugar mill, the Merida Museum of Science and Technology offers exhibits on subjects that range from prehistory to computers.

Open since 1971, the Merida Aquarium comprises three main exhibits and draws about 60,000 visitors every year.