MANAGUA

The city of Managua is the capital of Nicaragua, and has a population estimated in a million inhabitants. It was originally a small indigenous city.

After the Independence of the country from the Spanish crown in 1821, Managua was denominated as a City in 1846, and it became the capital of the Republic of Nicaragua in 1852.

The name of Managua comes from the Nahualt “Managuac” and means “Surrounded by lagoons”, it is popularly known as the “Girlfriend of the Xolotlan”.

As far as the rest of Nicaragua is concerned, its folklore legacy and traditions, the customs and idiosyncrasy of its inhabitants identify as a happy, full of life, hardworking, and above all optimistic people. They have managed to forge ahead in spite of the many adversities, and continue their efforts to move forward. As in the towns of the rest of the country, its foods are also famous.

On the shores of Lake Xolotlan, Managua offers many interesting sites: La Fuente Musical (The Musical Fountain) is a modern innovation with a spectacular demonstration of dancing lights and water to Nicaraguan folklore music. In its surrounding, and to the north, sits the modern Presidential Residence; to the south, the Palace of Culture or Palacio de la Cultura, where the National Museum resides, as well as valuable murals. To the west is the old Cathedral of Santiago, partially destroyed in the earthquake of 1972. Nonetheless, it is still possible to appreciate its interior of pure colonial architectural beauty.

A few steps from there, you’ll find the beautiful marble monument, honoring the Nicaraguan poet Ruben Dario. Just to the north and a few meters from the Lake, you will find the Ruben Dario National Theater where one can enjoy cultural and artistic performances. Through the big glass windows of the hall, you can watch the beauty and immensity of the Lake and both the Momotombo and Momotombito volcanoes. To the west, stands a statue in honor of Simon Bolivar and the Plaza of Peace, built and inaugurated in honor of the second visit of His Holiness, Pope Juan Paul II.

Interesting is the visit to La Loma de Tiscapa, from where you can appreciate a fabulous view of the city and the lake, especially at sunset. To the west there are the famous Huellas de Acahualinca (Acahualinca’s Foot Prints), remains and witnesses to the migration of thousands of animals and first inhabitants of the area, more than 10,000 years ago, as they were burned into the ground when running from the eruption of a volcano.

To the north of the Laguna de Tiscapa, you will find Managua’s most modern constructions. Which include the New Cathedral de la Purisima Concepcion, the Ruben Dario Fountain, splendidly lit up during the night, big shopping centers, hotels, and businesses.

Due to the quality of its painters, it is almost a must to visit the art galleries and the Mercado Central or “Roberto Huembes” where they have a great selection of national arts and crafts.

In February, the “Festival de Musica y Juventud” (Music and Youth Festival) is celebrated; in August the “Fiestas Agostinas”; and in December “La Fiesta de la Purisima” (See the Calendar of Events).

Tourist Sites:

• Historic: The old downtown of Managua with the ruins of the Cathedral, el Palacio de la Cultura, National Theatre Ruben Dario, El Malecon, the new Cathedral, Las Huellas de Acahualinca, and the historic plantation of San Jacinto.

• Scenic: Lake Managua with the Momotombo Volcanoes as a backdrop; the peninsula of Chiltepe and the Apoyeque, Asososca, Nejapa and Tiscapa lagoons; the valleys of Nejapa and Ticomo, the panoramic view of Las Nubes in El Crucero, and the wide beaches of Montelimar, Masachapa and Pochomil.

• Ecological: The natural reserve of Chiltepe and the canyon of "El Chocoyero", in Ticuantepe