The cultures of Venezuela are diverse and complex, influenced by the many different people who have made Venezuela their home. Venezuela has distinctive and original art, literature and music.

Venezuelan cuisine is influenced by its European (Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and French), West African and Native American traditions. Venezuelan cuisine varies greatly from one region to another. Food staples include corn, rice, plantain, yams, beans and several meats. Potatoes, tomatoes, onions, eggplants, squashes, spinach and zucchini are also common sides in the Venezuelan diet. less