The resonance of mysticism is palpable among the mountains of Yaracuy, notably in Chivacoa, the heart of Bruzual. This locale transforms into a hub of a devout following that has crossed borders and is passionately observed on October 12th each year. Enter María Lionza, the sovereign of the Sorte mountains.
Adherents of María Lionza in a Confluence of Faith and Tradition
Every October 12th, Chivacoa shines
María Lionza, deeply rooted in Venezuelan folklore, embodies the country’s cultural blend. While mainstream history earmarks October 12th as the meeting of two worlds – European and American – in Yaracuy, the powerful legacy of the queen is celebrated, merging indigenous, African, and Spanish traditions.
Chivacoa bursts with vitality, color, and movement. Thousands of followers, not only from various Venezuelan states but also from other nations, congregate in this mystical enclave. Streets and avenues brim over, reminiscent of the grand religious exoduses of other civilizations.
This isn’t merely a spiritual occasion. It’s also a bustling commercial platform. Craftsmen from across the country and from nations like Peru and Colombia showcase their works in the town’s squares and corners.
From traditional crafts made of clay, stone, seed, and leather to delectable regional delicacies. Every corner of Chivacoa becomes a display of talent and tradition.
María Lionza and the Dance in Flames
Spiritual Connection and the Indigenous Peoples’ Tenacity
Over time, the veneration of María Lionza has become known for its rich tapestry of rituals and symbols. The Dance in Flames, the pinnacle of these festivities, takes place precisely at dawn on October 12th.
In this dance, believers and mediums (those who channel spirits) pay homage to María Lionza and other iconic figures of the cult-like Indio Guaicaipuro, Negro Felipe, and Nicanor Ochoa.
However, beyond the spectacle and vibrancy this tradition offers, it’s essential to grasp its deeper meaning. María Lionza, as legend has it, was the daughter of an indigenous chief who, after being consumed by an anaconda, was reborn as a radiant woman astride a tapir.
She embodies strength, guardianship, and kinship with nature. Her tale mirrors the indigenous peoples’ fortitude and adaptability in the face of conquest and colonization.
Especially perfumeries become high-traffic hotspots. They offer more than fragrances: essentials for rituals like mystical baths intended to draw in good fortune, love, or prosperity, along with tobaccos, candles, and votive candles in an array of sizes and hues.
María Lionza: Beyond Mysticism, A Reflection of a Nation’s Diversity
María Lionza is more than a mystical figure; she mirrors a nation and its multifaceted nature. She’s the voice of ancestors urging remembrance, the whisper of history told through mysticism and tradition.
The Sorte mountains bear witness and year after year, they cloak themselves in enchantment to welcome the ardent followers of this undying queen.
As a journalist, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing numerous festivities and customs worldwide. Yet, the veneration of María Lionza in Chivacoa stands out for its authenticity and the passion with which it’s experienced.
It serves as a reminder that, beyond cultural distinctions, we all seek to connect with something greater than ourselves.
