María Lionza (statue)

The María Lionza statue is a significant monument located on the Francisco Fajardo highway in Caracas, Venezuela. It depicts the goddess María Lionza, a central figure in Venezuelan folk religion and mythology, riding a tapir (danta). The statue is a potent symbol of Venezuelan identity, spirituality, and the power of nature.

Originally sculpted by Alejandro Colina in the 1950s for the city of Barquisimeto, the initial version was considered too unconventional for the city's sensibilities at the time. The statue remained in storage for many years.

In 2003, a modified and re-envisioned version of the statue, reportedly by an unknown artist, was erected on the highway divider in Caracas. This more visible location quickly transformed the statue into a widely recognized and revered icon.

The María Lionza figure herself is a complex and syncretic deity, blending indigenous, African, and European religious beliefs. She is often petitioned for healing, protection, and guidance. The tapir, an animal native to South America, symbolizes her connection to the natural world and her strength.

The statue's presence on a major highway reflects the integration of popular religious beliefs into everyday Venezuelan life. It serves as a constant reminder of María Lionza's importance to many Venezuelans and her enduring influence on the country's cultural landscape. The location also makes the statue vulnerable to vandalism and theft, with frequent reports of damage and the removal of offerings left at its base. Despite these challenges, the María Lionza statue remains a powerful and enduring symbol in Venezuela.