San Cristóbal

San Cristobal, known as La Ciudad de la Cordialidad or The City of Cordiality, is a flourishing urban center in Venezuela with traces of its colonial history still evident today. The city was built along the banks of the Torbes River and is perched 820 meters (2,690.29 feet) above sea level. The origins of the city can be traced to the 16th Century when Conquistador Juan de Maldonado laid the foundations of one of the most vibrant cities in Venezuela. Against the backdrop of verdant hills, colonial buildings awash in white and polychromatic coloring are lined along the tranquil avenues. The facade of Universidad Nacional Abierta is a world-famous example of colonial architecture and the fierce annual bullfights are instrumental in keeping the city in touch with its Spanish heritage. The massive Pueblo Nuevo stadium is revered by Venezuelan football fans even more so than the exquisite cathedrals and churches present here. San Cristobal sparkles with athletic fervor as several sports clubs light up the streets near University of Los Andes. Blessed with the bounty of the surrounding Andes, the cascading waters of Chorro del Indio and nearby wildlife are worth catching a glimpse of. An epitome of metropolitan prosperity, San Cristobal is also a fine example of urban warmth.