The best Colonial Cities to visit
Leon
Once the Capitol of Nicaragua for over than 200 years, Leon is now infamous as the resting place of Nicaragua’s most renowned literary figure, Ruben Dario. This famous Nicaraguan poet lies beneath the grand entrance to the Famous Cathedral de Leon, which took over 113 years to construct. Leon is lined with cathedrals and universities and surrounded by the majestic Maribios volcanoes. It has long been the hot seat for political discussion and volcanic activity.
Granada
Founded in 1524, Granada is one of the oldest colonial cities on the American continent. Situated on Lake Nicaragua, Granada was the main port for trading and a major destination for travel during colonial times. Granada is full of wonderful examples of colonial architecture, presenting houses with fabulous inner courtyards. As in most Latin American countries, the central courtyard is the heart of the home, providing shade, green foliage and a place to relax in the mid-day heat.
Rivas
With a rural population of around 40,000, Rivas is the nearest major town to Las Salinas and The Surf Resort. Home to a large cathedral, a central park and brightly painted buildings, Rivas offers a glimpse of colonial life and architecture minus the tourists. While it is possible in Rivas to find Internet cafés and make international calls, the main draw to visit Rivas is to experience the chaos of the market along the cobblestone streets, where vendors sell everything from fruits and vegetables to pigs, saddles, dishcloths and dinner plates. Rivas is truly a slice of daily Nicaraguan life.