Catedral Vieja, Managua, Nicaragua
Managua is a living expression of compromise and resilience.
Like in countries such as Brazil and Australia, Nicaragua’s capital was chosen as an alternative to deciding on the competing claims of two more obviously qualified candidates. When Managua was declared the nation’s capital in 1852, Nicaragua’s two principal cities of Leon and Granada were dangerously polarised along political lines (Leon being the Liberal party’s stronghold and Granada being the base of the Conservatives). Thus in an attempt to foster national unity (unsuccessful in the immediate term as it turned out) Managua was chosen as capital and continues in this role today.
Located on the shores of Lake Managua, the capital lacks the same quality of architectural heritage as the colonial cities of Granada and Leon. Additionally the earthquakes of 1931 and 1972 both decimated the city. Almost completely rebuilt since the last cataclysm (despite the city’s precarious position over 14 seismic faults), Managua lacks the charm and attractiveness that can be found in other parts of the city. But it has to be given credit for still existing - despite all the odds.
For people visiting Nicaragua who are short on time, a brief tour of the city by car may satisfy their curiousity about the capital before they move on to other more aesthetically attractive locations in Nicaragua. Taxi driver Henry Collado provides good value tours (starting at $20 for two hours) as well as a taxi service and can be found on the road just outside the airport (or ask for “barba” - “the beard"). You can ring Henry at +505 8678-6891.
“Barba”
Comment feed for this post
