Palafito

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A palafito is an Amerindian stilt village or dwelling erected on bodies of water.

• The name Venezuela, meaning "Little Venice," is due to these Palafitos, which reminded Amerigo Vespucci of Venice when he explored Lake Maracaibo.

• In the late 19th century numerous palafitos were built in Chilean cities like Castro, Chonchi and other towns in Chiloé Archipelago and are now considered a typical element of Chilota architecture.