2 of 12 A cult follower of Maria Lionza becomes posessed by a spirit at Sorte Mountain in Venezuela's Yaracuy state, early Oct. 12, 2006. Followers of Maria Lionza, an indigenous woman who according to tradition was born on Sorte Mountain, make the annual pilgrimage to ask for her help or give thanks, using rituals that are a mix of indigenous, Afro-American, and Catholic traditions.