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MAP of CANAIMA  NATIONAL PARK

Santa Elena de Uairén is a Venezuelan town located in the southwest of Bolívar State, 30 km from the Brazil border, capital to Gran Sabana municipal district. Placed at approx. 900 m. of altitude, in a savannah surrounded by tabletop mountains known as Tepuis, with average temperatures falling between 25 y 28°C ( 75° F). Population: 20.000.

It was founded the 16th of September, 1923 by Lucas Fernández Peña, attracted by the region's diamond rush, its foundation served to hold the british at bay and prevent the area to be colonized. The town's name comes from his first daughter's  "Elena", and "Uairén" the river crossing it.

It has an airport, a military post and it's a duty free zone since 1999 . With a trade-based economy supported by mining industries. Tourism has experienced a recent development due to its vicinity to Gran Sabana's main natural monuments.

The Cathedral of Santa Elena is among the town's main attractions, built in the half o the XX century of stone brought over from around the area. The mission of Santa Elena is the center of activity of the cappuchin friars of the Franciscan order in the locality.