The colonial city of Leon was founded by Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba in the year 1524 next to Lake Xolotlan and the active Momotombo Volcano. There were important indigenous towns in the area. The then known city of Imabite was moved in 1610 to its current location after it was destroyed by a series of eruptions from the volcano and the city was basically buried, hence its nickname as the Central American Pompey. The ruins were found in the year 1967 and were recently declared a world heritage site by UNESCO.
In Leon Viejo we will have a very interesting tour where we learn about the early history of the first capital city of Nicaragua. On the hill where the fort is buried, we will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Momotombo Volcano and Lake Xolotlan.
In Leon Viejo we will have a very interesting tour where we learn about the early history of the first capital city of Nicaragua. On the hill where the fort is buried, we will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Momotombo Volcano and Lake Xolotlan.
We then continue to the city of Leon to see the main churches including the monumental cathedral, the largest in Central America, located at the main square. We will also see the birth house of writer/poet Ruben Dario, the “Ortiz Gurdian” art gallery and the “El Convento Hotel” and its colonial architecture. During the walking tour, you learn from the historic murals the role played by Leon in the social, economic and political development of Nicaragua. We will visit the “Hervideros de San Jacinto”, and feel the heat close up and see the boiling mud inside these small craters.
Requirements
Water, hat, camera, comfortable shoes & light clothing.
Includes
Transportation with a/c, bilingual guide, entrance fees & lunch.