Siparia, Trinidad and Tobago

I have now walked to Siparia. Also called the Sand City. This is location 16 in my walk across the world.

Siparia is best known for its annual Easter Sunday pilgimage when hundreds of Hindus, Muslims, Roman Catholics, and other Christian groups gather at the Siparia La Divina Pastora Church to pay homage to Siparee Mai Ke Mala, the statue of La Divina Pastora. The statue, known as Siparee Mai by the Hindus, is believed to be a manifestation of Mother Kali the Hindu Goddess of destruction. Hindus believe that long ago Siparee Mai appeared at the La Divina Church, as a baby, to grant the wishes of East Indian forefathers who were subdued by the colonial regime. Believers say the baby, who appeared close to the altar, aged as the hours of the day trickled by. By evening, she turned into an old woman and disappeared as the sun went down. It is believed the statue bestows fertility to barren women, marital success to couples, healing to the sick, proper husbands for young girls, and blessings to the poor and needy. Children who are unable to walk or speak could be healed if offerings are made to the Goddess.

Population is 49,394
Official language is English, also speak Caribbean Hindi, French, Spanish and Chinese

The local dish is Buljol: Salted codfish shredded and seasoned with peppers, onions, tomatoes, and olive oil, often served in a coconut bake. Not sure I am going to try this dish, depends how much salt is in it.