Managua Overview

V!VA User‘s Description

Managua, like Nicaragua, is a survivor of a brutal past that has left significant bruises. Natural disasters like earthquakes in 1931 and 1972, flooding from Hurricane Mitch in 1998 and damage from the 1978-1979 revolution have almost rendered this lakeside capital void of the colonial buildings and historic monuments that are scattered among the hideous concrete structures and overly congested streets of other Central America capitals. All that remains are low-rise, spread-out concrete structures which are perfect for a city near the intersection of three continental plates, but not perfect for a strolling tourist. Most tourists will want to spend as much time as it takes to catch the next bus out of town, but for those willing to give Managua a chance, here are some highlights:

The Old Center: A garden monument established in 1997 with some peaceful open spaces, aging buildings and a handful of lakeside cafes and restaurants.

The Palacio Nacional de la Cultura: One of the few colonial structures in Managua. It was recently restored and is home to the Nicaraguan National Gallery. Next door, the Centro Cultural has interesting photo exhibits and art and music galleries downstairs.

The Parque Nacional de la Loma de Tiscapa: This park is located on the hilltop behind the Hotel Crown Plaza and features excellent views of Managua and Sandina monuments. Its located on the site of the former presidential palace and where Sandina signed a peace treaty with Somoza and was later abducted and killed. Underneath the park facing the lake are the Somoza regime’s former prison cells.

The Ruben Dario Theater: displays Nicaraguan art and has a theater in the basement with regular drama productions.

Metro Center: the newest mall in town with international shopping near the Ruben Dario Theater.

WARNING: Although Managua is one of Central America’s safest capital cities, the Mercado Oriental is not safe: 60% of the country’s crime occurs here.

AROUND MANAGUA

Many of Nicaragua’s highlights, especially the Lago de Nicaragua, are just a couple of hours or less from Managua by bus. They can be visited on daytrips if you want to make Managua your base, or you can visit Managua on a day trip from Granada, which is also close to most of Nicaragua’s best tourist spots and is more traveler-friendly.