Introduction
From San Cristóbal City, our gracious capital nestled in the Santiago Valley, at the very foot of the majestic Sierra de la Maravilla, I extend my warmest greetings to the reader of this overview. I invite you to embark on a journey—a grand tour, if you will—through our ancient land and enterprising State of Táchira. This territory truly is a country unto itself, linking a noble past—for from the earliest times, the land of Táchira has left its indelible mark upon the pages of history—with our meaningful present.
A Land of Green and Grandeur
From the crags of the highest, misty Andean peaks to the luxuriant tropical forests of the Lake Maracaibo lowlands; from the sun-drenched borderlands to the superb summits of Uribante; from the rolling hills of the south to the lower mountains of the inland Táchira Depression, Táchira State presents a truly inexhaustible kaleidoscope of views and vistas.
When one truly contemplates Táchira, one invariably conjures up images of its industrious highlanders, verdant landscapes, perpetual mist, the evocative aroma of coffee, and the lonely, myth-rich kettle lakes of the Andes. It is a region renowned as the birthplace of presidents, home to a formidable gold and black football/soccer team, and a land where the traditions of the ox & plough meet a vigorous entrepreneurial spirit and magnificent scenery.
All of these elements form the rich fabric of this unique territory, capturing the very essence of Tachiran culture in its forms, words, and symbols. Táchira lends itself to exploration in countless ways, each offering an adventure of discovery rich in unforgettable experiences—though a modest grasp of Spanish and a reliable cagoule (rain jacket) may be prudent additions to one's packing.
The Frontiersmen: Identity and Hospitality
There are compelling reasons why Táchira State stands apart. The Frontiersmen, the Tachiran people, habitually use the definite article before the noun—'el Táchira'—to emphasise that they refer to this land as the singular, unique entity it is. It is far more than merely a state; it is a cultural homeland.
This sense of distinctiveness is matched by a timeless hospitality. As a gesture of friendship and welcome, when one visits our homeland, one will invariably be offered 'un cafecito', a small cup of black, thick Tachiran coffee. It is, quite simply, the finest coffee in the world.
The State of Táchira, through its resourceful populace, has long thrived as a commercial and agricultural hub while resolutely maintaining a unique regional identity. It is for this reason that, drawing upon ethnographic analogy, the Tachiran people are affectionately known as ‘the Basques of Venezuela’. This appellation is earned by their indomitable, transcendent spirit and fierce pride in their freedom, their deep-seated love for their own ancient mountains, and their renowned dedication to hard work. It was this entrepreneurial, resolute, and courageous spirit that enabled Táchira to lead and define the trajectory of an entire nation.
An Invitation
In sum, we extend this invitation to acquaint yourself with this land through these essential facts. Observe what has been accomplished and the vast potential that lies ahead.
Two colours will be your constant companions on your journey through Táchira: the emerald of the majestic setting of its mountains, hills, shires, and valleys, and the deep blue of its sky.
We are delighted to welcome you to the State of Táchira! and invite you to witness its achievements for yourself. It is with great pleasure that we extend the traditional Tachiran greeting: '¡Bienvenidos al país tachirense, al país de los tachirenses, esta es su casa!' (Welcome to the Tachiran country, the country of the Tachirans, this is your home!).
El Remanso de Santiago Estate, written from the wooded and mist-shrouded slopes of the Sierra de la Maravilla mountain range, San Cristóbal City. —January 2015.
