Ciudad Antigua’s prosperity in colonial times was also its downfall. Frequent looting by Miskito Indians, as well as the pirates Henry Morgan, Eduardo David and Lolonnois Tampaier forced many of Antigua’s residents to flee and settle what is now Ocotal. This was not their first migration, however. Much of Antigua’s original population came from the town now referred to as Ciudad Vieja, which happens to be the first city ever founded in the Segovias. Located at the confluence of the Jicaros and Coco rivers, Ciudad Vieja can still be visited today.

Parts of Ciudad Antigua’s main church, notably the nave, can be dated to the 17th century. Next door is the Museo de Ciudad Antigua, home to old religious artifacts as well as other ceremonial paraphernalia.

Buses to Ciudad Antigua depart from Ocotal at 7 am and at 12 pm.