Prominent figures from the country’s historic struggles for independence are honored with impressive monuments in this spacious boulevard.
The Proceres Promenade is a tree-lined avenue filled with gardens, walkways, water features and monuments to national heroes. The large public space was inaugurated by President Marcos Pérez Jiménez in 1956 and honours the struggles for independence in several South American countries. They include Venezuela, Bolivia and Colombia. The Spanish name for the promenade, Paseo de los Próceres, translates to "Walk of Heroes."
Walk down the promenade and pause to study each of the monuments. Observe statues to important revolutionary figures such as Francisco de Miranda, Simón Bolívar and Manuel Piar. Gaze up at the Monument to the Heroes, two enormous blocks of marble with carved reliefs of four major battles. See the Monument to the Pioneers, in which a bronze figure of an Indian sits atop a horse on a marble plinth that’s guarded by several lions. It is flanked by a tall obelisk.
As you make your way along the promenade, admire the fountains and the water mirror. There is also a good view down the avenue toward the El Avila mountain range that separates Caracas from the coast.
If you are feeling energetic, join the locals on the area that has been set aside for running and cycling. You may also see aerobics and dance classes that you might be able to join. Alternatively, make use of the exercise machines that occupy a small shaded area. Children can burn off some energy in the playground.
When you’ve finished with your exercises, relax on a bench and appreciate the neatly manicured rows of trees and lawns.
The Proceres Promenade is situated about 4 miles (6.4 kilometres) south of the city’s centre. Take the subway system to El Valle or Los Simbolos stations, then walk for 10 minutes to the promenade. After your visit, consider an excursion to the nearby Círculo Militar Lake. Then come back to the promenade in the early evening to see the water mirror bathed in light.
