A city dominated by grand cathedrals, imposing colonial facades and gigantic revolutionary murals, León’s architecture is testament to its equally dramatic history.
Once the capital of Nicaragua, León has suffered natural disasters, brutal colonisation and civil war, and it was the heartland of the Sandinista revolution. This turbulent past is recognised in the streets of the city.
Recently renovated and standing alabaster-white, Catedral de la Asunción is the city’s gleaming heart. A visit up to its domed roof is a must for magnificent views across the sprawling city and, on a clear day, a number of distant, smoking volcanoes.
By night the university town becomes a hub of cosmopolitan bars, restaurants and nightlife, buzzing with music and festivity.
Heading northwest of the city you will reach Nicaragua’s wild coastline. Untamed and remote, it is a surfer’s paradise, with excellent swell, and dotted with sleepy fishing villages. Adventure seekers will also be at home here with kayaking expeditions into the untouched Reserva Natural Padre Ramos, hikes up the impressive Cosigüina Volcano with its gigantic, lake-filled crater and sandboarding down the active Cerro Negro.
The homeland of numerous great poets and artists, including Ruben Dario, León is home to fantastic art collections and museums.
Considered one the finest contemporary museums in Central America, the Ortiz-Gurdián Collection includes works by Picasso, Chagall, and Dali. There is also work by a number of Nicaraguan artists such as Morales and Pérez de la Rocha.
Field Notes
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Be it for active volcanoes, thick jungle, unspoiled beaches or charming colourful towns, Nicaragua is waiting.
