Nicaragua has been forgotten for a long time. Having stayed off the beaten track for decades, this land of volcanoes and lakes has recently emerged as a destination for backpackers, surfers and travelers looking for something different.
The truth is that few places in the world offer so much in so little space: dozens of volcanoes, jungles, virgin beaches, exotic nature reserves, lakes, beautiful colonial cities, interesting petroglyphs and ruins, patron saint festivals … Today we move to this interesting country to discover some of its most important cities. Specifically, we want to tell you about the eight most populated cities in Nicaragua , some of which are also the most touristy. Can you come with us?
Managua
How could it be otherwise, let’s start by talking about Managua, the capital of Nicaragua and head of the homonymous department. Due to numerous natural disasters (landslides, floods, earthquakes …), the appearance of the city has undergone radical changes over time. In some cases, even Managua has been totally or partially destroyed. However, the capital has begun to take flight.
Lion
Santiago de los Caballeros de León, better known as León, is the second most populated city in Nicaragua. Head of the homonymous department, it houses an important and diverse historical and natural heritage. Therefore, it is one of the most touristic places in the country. Its streets and colonial- style buildings stand out and, more specifically, the Cathedral, which is considered the largest in Central America.
Masaya
Belonging to the department of the same name, Masaya is the third most populated city in the country, forming part of the Metropolitan Region of Managua. It is considered the cradle of national folklore and has an abundant historical, monumental, cultural and natural heritage, with the Masaya Volcano National Park as one of the main points of interest.
Chinandega
We also have to talk about Chinandega, head of the department of the same name. Known as Ciudad Mártir, Ciudad Cálida and Ciudad de las Naranjas, it offers views of the San Cristóbal Volcano, the highest in Nicaragua, which is located in the department. Of its heritage, the parish Our Lady of Santa Ana and some colonial buildings stand out. On the other hand, we want to comment that Holy Week is a very important holiday in Chinandega.
Matagalpa
We continue our journey through the most important cities of Nicaragua in Matagalpa, head of the homonymous department. It is known as the Pearl of the North for its natural characteristics and as the Capital of Production for its varied commercial and agricultural activity. The city is home to some interesting monuments, highlighting the Matagalpa Cathedral, also known as the Parroquia de San Pedro.
Esteli
The sixth most populated city in Nicaragua is the Villa de San Antonio de Pavia de Estelí, also known as Estelí. Head of the department of the same name, it maintains a high industrial and commercial activity. In fact, some consider it the second most important city in economic terms. Being surrounded by mountains and rivers, Estelí has a varied ecosystem.
grenade
Granada, also known as the Great Sultana for its Moorish appearance, and as the Paris of Central America, could not be missing from this list. Considered the most visited city in Nicaragua, it houses important points of interest: San Francisco Museum, Colón Park, Granada Cathedral, Independence Square, Episcopal Palace …
Jinotega
Finally, we must talk about Jinotega, the head city of the homonymous department, on the border with Honduras. Located in a valley, it offers some interesting corners, such as the museum or the library, which are in the same place; the Church of Our Lady of the Angels, the San Juan Bautista Cathedral, the Otto Casco Park and the Central Park.