Masaya was originally inhabited by Mexican immigrants, the Chorotegano, who first arrive around 2500 B.C. The indigenous peoples, who came to be known as the Dirianes, were creative artists and productive farmers. The Spanish arrived in the 15th and 16th centuries to find a populated land with thriving settlements, which they promptly conquered and built on. Residents still celebrate their native history with various statues of the local chief Diriangén, who fought against the Spanish. Diría, Diriomo and Diriamba are all said to be named after the prominent Cacique.
Masaya became a department in March 1883. That the residents had retained much of their individual identity and independence – particularly in the Monimbó area of Masaya – became apparent during the 1970s when the region was one of the foremost in the fight against Somoza’s National Guard. (Check out the Museo Galería Héroes y Martires to see how they donned Güegüence masks during their street battles.)
In the 1990s, following the war, Masaya and the surrounding areas began a period of reconstruction and rehabilitation. The Mercado Nacional de Artesanías was restored and locals began to resurrect traditional art forms, most prominently the pottery of San Juan del Oriente. Today, Masaya and the surrounding areas are establishing themselves as tourist-friendly spots with plenty of opportunities for visitors.