Coyotepe

Location:
Masaya, Nicaragua

Ruin Types:
Ruins

By Mike Karanicolas

Although the historical ambience of this old fortress is largely ruined by the prodigious graffiti covering its walls, it's still an interesting place to visit. For one thing, it offers a beautiful view of the region. The dark, labyrinthine corridors are also fun to explore. Coyotepe was the sight of a fierce battle between Nicaraguan troops and US Marines in 1912, where resistance hero Benjamin Zeledon made his last stand. General Somoza turned the fortress into an infamous prison, and his son used it as a base to launch mortar attacks on Masaya during the 1979 revolution.

To get to Coyotepe, take a taxi or catch a Managua-bound bus from the Mercado Municipal and ask them to let you off here. From the highway, it's about a kilometer's walk uphill. It is well worth the climb.

Price Description: 20 C