Explore the stunning city of Leon
Situated in western Nicaragua, Leon is the second most important city after Managua. Blessed with graceful old architecture and a fascinating history, Leon has played a pivotal role in the country's history many times over. Modern day Leon may not be as important as it once was, but it serves as home to the National University which has proved to be a constant injection of life to the city.
The original city of Leon was established by Spanish conqueror Francisco Hernández de Córdoba in 1523 at the foot of the Momotombo volcano. Unfortunately the volcano exploded in 1610 causing the city to become damaged beyond repair and subsequently abandoned. A new city was established in Leon's current location with the official name of Santiago de los Caballeros de Leon – though the long form of this name is seldom used today. The ruins of old Leon – Leon Viejo – still lie at the foot of Momotombo and make for a fascinating tour.
Leon was the capital of Nicaragua for more than 200 years. It saw much friction in that time and some of the bullet-holes and cracks caused by the warfare can still be seen. Most of the wars were between the Liberals and the Conservatives. When the issue of the country's capital came up, the Liberals wanted Leon to remain the capital while the Conservatives pushed for Granada to become the new center of government. Managua was chosen as a compromise and thus Leon lost its long-standing position as the center of the country's government.
Most visitors to Leon come to see the town's interesting architecture. One of the most popular attractions is the 18th century cathedral that is the largest in Central America. Also of interest are the La Merced and the Xalteva churches, the Old Spanish Ammunition Fortress, the San Francisco Convent and the beautifully carved Casa de los Leones. However there are many more interesting old buildings to see. The hotels here provide a fairly good level of accommodation and the town is well worth a short visit. Leon is also known for being the capital of the Leon Department and for its manufacture of furniture, shoes and leather goods.
User Comments & Reviews
2010-03-01 21:13:38
To keep Leon and Granada as tourist towns highlighting their colonil days, Managua needs to say the capital. To much poverty exist in the country. If the capital is changed to either Leon or Granada, the extremelly poor will flock to the new capital. I was born in Managua and just got back one week ago. Keep Managua the capital
2010-03-01 19:24:02
hola nicaragua necesita canviar de aministracion para que leon vuelva acer la capital de nicaragua
2010-02-26 21:03:05
my familylives in nicaragua leon is the best please to take a vacation at even in yhe beaches and i agree leon should be the capital of nicaragua
2010-01-29 04:14:05
mmmmm sorry guys but like leon their is no other ancient city he who doesnt know much of history doesnt know the quality of this city if leon was the capital of nicaragua the goverment could reuse all the old ports and make nicaragua more profitable for nicaraguens. and i mean the deal is the we educate the people to make them able to survive by their own means. but unfortunately this wont happen specially with latinos trying not to speak spanish infront of some other fella whom doesnt not speak english. you have too cut that out and make it happen be free nicaragua be free.. but this time for reals.
2010-01-08 00:41:10
I have been in Leon for just a few days and love the place. The old buildings are way cool, the people friendly and the history is rich with the struggle to be freely independant from those who would wish to keep this country enslaved by the wealthy class. Viva revolutiom and freedom everywhere
2009-11-15 01:01:46
And what is the problem with Karla's comment Jorge??? Is not a secret the situation in Nicaragua. It's just a comment!!! And I do agree with you Karla, I also wish that Leon returns to be the capital of Nicaragua! Viva Leon jodido!!!!!!!
2009-10-07 19:12:17
I doesnt matter about the CAPITAL in the Country itsself that need HELP. See the real situation Karla an wake up..............
2009-10-02 18:09:22
My commet is that I will like that Leon will be again the capital of Nicaragua...
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