Leon is one of the most impressive colonial cities in the country and Leon Viejo is one of the oldest Spanish colonial settlements in the Americas and a Unesco World Heritage Site. Here, you will find hotels, restaurants, bars, museums, cultural centers, several colonial churches and the largest cathedral in Central America. Leon also has a couple of famous beaches: Poneloya and Las Peñitas. The Juan Venado Island Natural Reserve is located close to the last beach, featuring abundant marine life and mangrove vegetation.
The Ruins of León Viejo are an exceptional testimony of the first European settlements in the New World. Founded in 1524 by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba, during its short history, the city has undergone a series of natural disasters. Partially destroyed by the Momotombo volcano that erupted in 1578, the earthquake of 1610 struck the final blow by destroying what remained standing. The decision was taken to move the city and to rebuild it six leagues away. The gradual burial of the city due to natural disasters has preserved the vestiges unaltered and in the same environment, without having undergone any change. The municipality is also famous for the festivities held in honor of Virgin Mary (December) and the colorful sawdust carpets than can be seen during Holy Week (Easter). |
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