Managua

Managua sprawls along the southern end of Lago de Managua and is home to more than 25% of Nicaragua's population. It has suffered countless natural disasters over the centuries, including several earthquakes, of which the one that occurred in 1972 completely destroyed Managua's center. Nowadays the area that used to be the capital's historic core is a wasteland, where some people have built shanties out of tin and cardboard.

Many sights in Managua are situated around the Plaza de la República, but several of them are now in ruins, as a result of the natural disasters that have struck the city. The municipal cathedral was heavily damaged from natural disasters, but the impressive lakeside building has been restored and can be visited again. Not far from the cathedral is the Palacio Nacional. It has two huge pictures of Augusto Sandino and Carlos Fonseca at the entrance. The Museo de la Revolución has an interesting display on the country's revolutionary struggle during the 20th century.

Another interesting sight is the Huellas de Acahualinca (footprints of Acahualinca) museum, where you can see the ancient footprints of people and animals running towards the lake from a volcanic eruption, that have been left in the hardened mud thousands of years ago. There are several lagunas around Managua that are actually volcanic crater lakes. They are popular spots for swimming.

There are many hotels and restaurants in Managua. Numerous cheap guesthouses are located in the Barrio Martha Quezada. During the weekends, there is a lot dancing and partying going on around the Plaza 19 de Julio. About 20 km southeast of Managua is the interesting Masaya Volcano National Park, while 20 km northwest of the city is the Laguna de Xiloá, a stunning crater lake. At El Trapiche, 17 km southeast of Managua, water from natural springs has been channelled into large outdoor pools surrounded by gardens and restaurants.