The city of Managua is the capital of the largest country in Central America, the country of Nicaragua. It was founded in 1819 and since then, the city has evolved to become one of the largest and most important cities in Central America. Managua is the cultural, educational, social, political and economic life force of Nicaragua.
Managua occupies a land area of 544 square kilometers or 210 square miles. Of this, the urban area is at 173.7 square kilometers or 67.1 square miles. The city is ideally located at the southwest side of Lake Xolotlán, which is better known as Lake Managua. There are also four lagoons in the city.
The city’s name stems from the Nahuatl term “mana-ahuac,” which means adjacent to the water, or a site that is surrounded by water. This is obviously in reference to the city’s location by Lake Xolotlán.
However, the city is built on a major fault line, subjecting the city of Managua to severe earthquakes on occasion. Seismologists have even predicted that the city will suffer from earthquakes every half century. In the 20th century, it experienced two major earthquakes, the first in 1931 and the second in 1972, which have hindered the city’s progress. At the same time, it has compelled new developments to move and be constructed at the city’s outskirts.
The people living in the capital city are referred to as Managüense or capitalinos/capitalinas. As of 2010, the city of Managua has served as the home of 2.2 million residents, translating into a population density of 2,537 people per square kilometer or 6,570 residents per square mile. If the population in the metropolitan area is counted, the population swells to 2.4 million residents, with a metro density of 2,000 residents per square kilometer or 4,000 people per square mile. This makes the city of Managua the most populated city in Nicaragua and the second most populated city in Central America, following the city of Guatemala.
The city is proud of being the first capital city in all of Central America that was able to successfully eradicate illiteracy in 2007. This is due to an extensive literacy campaign in the city during the first decade of the 21st century. At the same time, Managua is home to the top business school in Latin America, the Instituto Centroamericano de Administracion de Empresas, which is also one of the top ten international business schools in the world. It has close affiliation with Harvard University in the United States.
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Travelers to Managua find that it is quite safe in the city. In fact, Nicaragua has the distinction of being the safest Central American country, according to various international groups such as Interpol and the United Nations. Unlike other Central American cities, Managua does not have a huge gang problem as they account for less than a percentage of reported crimes. As of 2005, there were only 34 gangs in the city with 706 members, a significant decrease from 96 gangs and 1,725 members at the start of the 21st century.
Travelers should still be vigilant and observe basic safety precautions when going out to avoid any untoward incidents. It is best to stay in groups and to avoid wearing flashy jewelry, especially necklaces and chains, since thieves and snatchers easily take these items. Before heading out, secure valuables, especially cash and travel documents in the hotel safe. Use the local currency when transacting in the city and carry only the cash you need for the day.
When going around the city, taxis are a better option than buses, especially since many muggings occur at the bus stations and in the areas of Metro Centro and the BAC building. Of the two taxi options available, the Privado or Private taxis are safer than the Collectivo or collective taxi, which may pick up other passengers along the way. Also, keep your doors locked and windows rolled up at all times, especially since beggars and service givers may approach the vehicles during stops. If riding a bus, avoid using the overhead compartment and instead keep your personal belongings close to your person at all times.
The Augusto C. Sandino International Airport is the main airport that serves the city of Managua and the country of Nicaragua since it opened in 1968. This is the fifth busiest airport in the Central American region, handling more than 1.1 million passengers a year. The military airport of Punta Huete and the regional Los Brasiles Airport are other airports within the vicinity.
The city of Managua enjoys a warm tropical climate allowing locals and travelers many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. During the daytime, the temperature averages between 28 °C to 32 °C or a balmy 82 °F to 90 °F. There are two distinct seasons, a dry season from November to April, and a rainy season from May to September. During the rainy season, the city receives 300 to 400 millimeters of rainfall a month. The hottest months are March and April, with temperatures peaking at 38 °C or 100 °F. The coolest months are December and January, with an average low of 21 °C or only 70 °F. In a given year, the city receives 2,006 millimeters or almost 79 inches of rainfall.
The warm tropical climate, interesting history, delicious cuisine and the friendly people of Managua are just some of the reasons why more and more travelers find themselves ready to explore this Central American city.
History of Managua
Prior to the arrival of the Europeans, the area that is now Managua used to be occupied by the Paleo-Indians way back 6,000 years ago. Many of the unearthed artifacts from the early civilizations are on display at the city’s museums.
Managua was founded in 1819 as a fishing village and given the name Leal Villa de Santiago de Managua. However, it was only in 1852 when the city became the official capital of Nicaragua. Prior to the declaration, the cities of León and Granada had served as the country’s capital cities. When American soldiers destroyed the city of Granada in 1857, Managua’s position as the capital city became uncontested.
During the 19th century and early half of the 20th century, Managua underwent massive urbanization and the city prospered economically. Amidst natural calamities such as the 1931 earthquake and 1936 fire, the city was rebuilt from the rubble to become the most developed city in Central America. Under the direction of Nicaraguan dictator Anastasio Somoza Garcia, many infrastructure projects were built.
However, the tide turned for the city after the 1970s due to a series of natural and socio-political events. All was lost during the devastating 1972 earthquake, which leveled 90% of the city killing over 19,000 residents. Because of this, the surviving residents moved to the outskirts of the city, leaving much of the city center to remain undeveloped with very little reconstruction work done.
In 1979, the city once again suffered another setback because of the Nicaraguan Civil War prompted by a bid to overthrow the corrupt Somoza government. The 1980s was marked by the eleven-year war, also known as the Contra War, which would later be known as the Nicaraguan Resistance. On top of this, the city also suffered from many natural disasters that have severely hampered economic recovery efforts.
Due to the marked decline of the city after the 1970s, the old city was differentiated from its modern counterpart. This is why the period of Managua prior to the 1970s became known as La Antigua Ciudad or “The Ancient City.”
Today, the country’s government is making great efforts to reconstruct the capital city to once again bring about Managua’s golden age. Many buildings, galleries, residential apartments and monuments have been rebuilt. Despite its many setbacks, the city remains the center of trade and industry of the country, as well as the main hub of education and culture.
Demographics of Managua
There are 2.4 million people in the capital city of Managua as of 2012, accounting for about a quarter of the country’s total inhabitants. This also makes it the second largest city in Central America in terms of population.
The city has a multi-ethnic population. The city’s demographic profile is made up of mostly 67% Mestizo and 17% White, as well as some segments of Black people composed of indigenous tribes of Miskito, Garifuna and Creole descent, concentrated mainly on the Mosquito Coast. There are people in the city with ancestries from Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Blacks make up about 9% of the demographic while Amerindians comprise 5% of the total population.
Those of European descent come from Spain, Italy, France and Belgium, many of which moved to the area during the 19th century and established many agricultural businesses, hotels, banks and newspapers during that time. In the 21st century, Managua has become the home of many expatriates from around the world, such as businessmen from Taiwan, Germany, the United States, Palestine, China and other Latin American countries.
Spanish is the lingua franca in the city, with over 90% of the population using Central American Spanish. This is the same type of Spanish language that is used in Uruguay, Colombia and Argentina. It is labeled as Nicaraguan Spanish and often called Nicañol. English is also spoken as well as a number of other indigenous languages. The indigenous people still speak their native languages such as Sumo, Miskito and Rama. English Creole is also spoken in the city. Because of the tremendous diversity in Nicaragua, it is often necessary to avail of the services of a professional language translation service provider, especially when dealing with important business and legal matters.
Only 7% or 400,000 of the country’s total population hold a university degree. These are mostly concentrated in the city’s capital. At the same time, the city’s residents are mostly Catholics.
The people of Managua are friendly and are no strangers to adversity. Although many are considered to be suffering from extreme hardship, they are ready to do hard work, put on a smile and go dance salsa, especially during the many celebrations and festivals in the city. They readily welcome tourists and business travelers to the city, and are likewise proud of their historic past and ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
Economy of Managua
The city of Managua is the economic lifeline of the country. Despite the natural and socio-political setbacks of the country, the city is the main economic generator of the country. The currency used is the Nicaraguan Cordoba Oro (NIO).
The country has primarily an agricultural economy, but other industries are on the rise, such as construction and trade and industry. Its primary trading products are coffee, cotton and other agricultural crops. Other products produced in the city are beer, coffee, textiles, shoes and matches.
The inflation rate is at 7.3% as of 2011. Fortunately, the cost of living in the city is very low. It is 723 out of 780 places (780 is the least expensive city) in terms of cost of living ranking. Food, personal care and clothing items such as business suits, children’s clothes, eveningwear and coats are very affordable in Managua. The cost of education, health care, transportation and entertainment are also highly affordable. However, despite the low cost of living, Managua is also ranked as having a 40% hardship index, which means that the residents of Managua experience extreme hardship.
Many international companies have a presence in the capital city. American retailer Wal-Mart, Union Fenosa, food giant Parmalat and telecommunications company Telefonica have offices in the city. At the same time, Managua serves as the country’s banking center. Major banks in the city are Banco de la Produccion (BANPRO), Banco Uno, Banco de Finanzas, Banco de America Central and the Lafise Group.
Tourism is a growing sector in the city. The warm tropical climate, strong biodiversity, active volcanoes and many attractions are making Managua a top destination for travelers visiting Central America. To accommodate the growing number of tourists to the city, top hotel chains are also in the city, such as Crowne Plaza, InterContinental, Holiday Inn, Hilton and Best Western.
The real estate industry in the city is also on the rise. Many foreigners from Europe and North America are buying properties in the city to be used as post-retirement properties. Also, given the growing economy of the city, there is a growing demand for prime office spaces, further proving that Managua is well on its way to a full economic recovery.
Businesses based in Managua that would like to cater to international markets would find that using the services of a professional language translation service provider works to their advantage. This should help open doors to new markets, other than just the Spanish-speaking communities.
Managua Attractions
Although the earthquake destroyed 90% of the city of Managua in 1972, the city government is busy rebuilding in other areas and there are many attractions to entertain visitors to the city. The original city center still has to be rebuilt since most of the new construction is focused on other areas of the city.
The Historical Center of the city is located near Lago de Managua. It is here that Plaza de la Revolución formerly named Plaza de la República, is situated. The whole area still needs to be rebuilt but there are some features in the historic center that have survived the devastating effects of the earthquake. Parque Central has several important monuments dedicated to national poets and heroes. It has a network of other parks including the Rubén Darío Park that pays homage to the national poet of Nicaragua. Miguel Ángel Asturias, a writer from Guatemala is also honored in the city with a park named after him. There are also important monuments in the area, such as the Monumento à la Paz or the Monument for Peace. It is an interesting piece of memorial. It’s artistic value might be questioned but it surely evokes a sense of stoppage of military conflict, showing different types of guns as well as a military tank being buried under concrete. Also here is the monument El Guerrillero sin Nombre or The Nameless Guerilla Soldier. The plaza also contains the National Palace of Culture as well as the Rubén Dario National Theater.
One of few the structures that survived the devastating earthquake is Catedral de Santiago, and is also known as the Old St. James Cathedral or the Old Cathedral of Managua. It is an important church in the city that dates back to 1920. The church was designed by Managua resident Dutch architect Pablo Dambach. It was shipped from Belgium. It has the distinction of being constructed out of concrete on a metal frame, the first church in the Western Hemisphere to utilize this type of construction. The Old Cathedral of Managua is waiting renovation after being damaged in the 1972 earthquake.
In response to the damage to the Old Cathedral, a new cathedral of Managua was built called Catedral Metropolitana de la Purisima Concepcion. The New Cathedral of Managua was opened in 1993, making it the newest Roman Catholic Church in the city. Unlike other cathedrals, The New Cathedral is painted in somber grays and whites with a very simple interior and has 63 domes on the roof.
Managua is proud to be the only country in Central America to house an Eternal Flame. This is located at the tomb of Carlos Fonseca in the Central Park of the city. Carlos Fonseca founded the FSLN or the Sandinista National Liberation Front.
The National Palace of Culture is one of the buildings spared by the 1972 earthquake. It is one of the oldest remaining structures in the city that was built in 1935. It is an aptly named building since the structure houses much of the country’s culture and history. It was traditionally used as the House of Congress, although in modern times, the National Palace is the home of the National Archive, the National Museum and the National Library.
The National Museum showcases paintings and other artifacts dating back to pre-Columbian times. The museum also features some stone sculptures that date back more than 2,500 years ago, made by the Nahuatl indigenous people. Other interesting sections of the museum include the Hall of National Symbols as well as the Hall of National History.
Travelers hoping to learn about the Acahualinca people should visit the Museum of Acahualinca. The Museo Sitio Huellas de Acahualinca’s most important piece is the ancient footprints of Acahualinca. These are amazing fossilized footprints of 15 Paleo-Indians on volcanic ash. The well-preserved fossil dates back more than 6,000 years. The museum also has footprints of a mammoth as well as a number of archeological artifacts.
The Tiscapa Lagoon Natural Reserve is a beautiful fresh water lagoon that is inside the crater of a dormant volcano within the city of Managua. Travelers could go on zip-lines to go across the water as part of the activities that could be done here. There are also military memorials here that are open to the public. The Tiscapa Lagoon Natural Reserve is an interesting tourist attraction in the city since this is where many modern shopping malls, restaurants, entertainment venues, fountains and open squares were constructed. Historically, the Tiscapa Reserve has been an important archeological site where many pre-Columbian artifacts have been unearthed.
Inside the Tiscapa Lagoon Natural Reserve is the Monumento al Liberalismo. This monument dates back to the 1930s and was built to honor the Nicaraguan dictator President Anastasio Somoza-Garcia. Another monument here is the 59-foot tall Monument to Sandino, depicted as s silhouette of Augusto C. Sandino, who is regarded as one of the country’s national heroes. The Nicaraguan military protects this memorial.
Managua Culture
The capital city of Managua is the cultural center of the country. The country’s best schools, theaters, cinemas, clubs, artists and centers of learning, art and sports are all based here. The best restaurants in the country are likewise found here, providing travelers with a wide array of international dining choices.
The National Palace of Culture is one of the most significant buildings in the city, since this is the location of the National Library, National Archive and the National Museum. It is one of the few buildings that have remained intact after the 1972 earthquake that leveled most of the city.
Another interesting center preserving the culture of the city and the country is the Doctor Roberto Incer Barquero Library. This library has a collection of more than 67,000 books, as well as an extensive newspaper archive. Those looking for economic information from the Central Bank need only go here. There is also free Internet available for visitors. Local artists are also given exhibition space in the library’s gallery. The country’s numismatic history is showcased in the collection of old coins, bulls and medals.
The Ruben Dario National Theater is the country’s premiere theater and is considered as one of the most modern theaters in the entire Central American region. It survived the 1972 earthquake and is today used as the venue for many international performances as well as top local acts. This is the venue for the annual Miss Nicaragua beauty pageant since 1955, where the country’s most beautiful women are selected to represent Nicaragua to the Miss Universe, Miss International and Miss World beauty pageants. This is where cultural performances such as the satirical drama El Güegüense are shown.
El Güegüense is a type of theatrical play that originated from Nicaragua during the 18th century. It has been proclaimed by UNESCO as “A Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.” Nicaragua is one of six Latin American countries and the only country in Central America to have two of these distinctions.
Latin genres of music are hugely popular in the city. These include Palo de Mayo, Cumbia, Merengue and Latin Pop music. Locals dance to Bachata music in various clubs, as well as American pop music. Salsa dancing is a must for residents of the city.
There are a number of dining options in the city to enjoy. Food from all over the world could be enjoyed in Managua, having restaurants that specialize in French, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Korean and Taiwanese cooking. International fast food chains are also present, such as Pizza Hut, Burger King, Papa John’s, Subway, McDonald’s and Domino’s Pizza. Local fast food places to try are Pollo Campero, Tip-Top and Rostipollo.
Those looking for a taste of Nicaraguan cuisine would find that rice, beans, plantains, cheeses and cabbage are often used in a variety of dishes. Fried cheese is a popular side dish, as well as fried plantains. A regional dish is gallopinto, which is made of beans and rice. The cooking in the region also has influences from Spain, Italy and Germany.
Some of the best steaks are available in Managua. Locals enjoy their grilled steaks with a side serving of tangy chimichurri sauce, which is a combination of several aromatic herbs, olive oil and red or white vinegar that gives it the right amount of tartness. Other local specialties to try are Cajeta de leche, a sweet treat made of condensed milk, coconut and nuts; and quesillo, a soft cheese snack cooked in a corn tortilla with pickled onions and sour cream. Nicaragua’s answer to the tamale is called Nacatamales. Delicious fruits to try in the city are momones, jocotes and mangoes.
Tourists and locals who wish to enjoy the waters of Lake Managua is welcome to take a sightseeing boat called La Novia de Xolotlán. For an hour, travelers would enjoy a tour of the lake and see the different sights that line the lake. For entertainment, casinos and karaoke bars have sprouted in the city, which appeal to both locals and foreigners. The best casino in the city is said to be the Palms Casino.
Shopping destinations in the city are the Plaza Inter, Galerias Santo Domingo, Multicentro Las Américas and Centro Comercial Metrocentro. The Mercado Roberto Huembes, Mercado Israel Lewites and Mercado Oriental are large local market systems where locals and travelers could purchase just about anything. These are also great markets to buy inexpensive souvenirs.
Managua is also proud to be the home of the biggest stadium in Central America, the Dennis Martinez National Stadium. Fortunately, the 40,000 seating capacity venue survived the 1972 earthquake and is today used as premiere venue for soccer and baseball games. Concerts and religious events are also held here. Dennis Martinez was the first Nicaraguan baseball player to play in Major League Baseball in the United States.
Baseball is the national pastime of the country. Soccer is a close second, as well as boxing.
The most popular festival in the city is the feast of Santo Domingo de Guzman, called Las Fiestas Patronales. Santo Domingo is the patron saint of the city, which starts its celebration on August 1. The festival begins with a “Bajada del Santo,” wherein the old statue of the saint is paraded down the street from Las Sierritas Church to a church in the old town. After ten days, the statue is returned to Las Sierritas Church. The return procession is called “Subida del Santo.” Participants wearing colorful costumes and masks come to celebrate with songs, dances, drinking and merrymaking. This is also the best time to view the fancy carrosas (automobiles) on display, as well as various horses and the skills of the horse rider. During the ten-day period, the city comes alive with dancing, drinking, music and a number of activities.
Since 2003, the city has also hosted the Alegria por la Vida Carnaval. This annual festival held every March includes floats, parades, food, dancing and live music, culminating in the march of the Carnival Queen. The weeklong Lenten Week celebration features various religious processions, and is a reflection of just how religion is deeply ingrained in the people.
An important celebration in the city happens on July 19th, as this commemorates the downfall of the Somoza regime. Rallies held by the Sandinista Party are held at the Plaza de la Fé to celebrate Liberation Day. Another historical event that the city remembers is the Battle of San Jacinto, which is commemorated on September 14. Instead of Columbus Day, October 12 is known as Indigenous Resistance Day, to honor the indigenous tribes that bravely fought the Europeans during the colonial period.
Since the country is still largely agricultural, there are still agricultural events in the city. The most important is Expica, which is held at Barrio Acahualinca. Every August, ranchers from all over the country come to Managua to showcase and sell horse breeding stock. This event also gives a glimpse of the rancher’s way of life to those who visit the Expica.
The country also celebrates September 15 as a national holiday. This commemorates the liberation of Nicaragua from Spain in 1821. This date is the same independence day of other Central and Latin American countries such as Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala and Costa Rica. This is another time for celebration. The occasion features parades, musical performances and various festivities and culminates in a fireworks display in the city.
In the merry month of December, the two-week IMPYME crafts fair is a fun event, featuring the best arts, crafts and food of Nicaragua, turning Avenida Bolivar into one large flea market and amusement center. December 12 is known as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, where the faithful pray and do acts of charity. The festive Christmas season marks the end of the year and a night-long New Year’s Celebration is held annually to bid goodbye to the old and welcome the new year.
Interesting Facts About Managua
Managua is a fascinating city with a central role in the development of the country’s economy, culture and history. There are many interesting things about Managua that give the city more than meets the eye.
- Managua is one of the safest cities in Central America. The country of Nicaragua has one of the lowest crime rates in Central America. Only Uruguay has a crime rate that is lower than Nicaragua, making it the second lowest crime rate in Latin America. According to the Global Peace Index, Nicaragua also proudly ranks in the sixth place among the safest countries in Latin America. Compared to other Central American countries, Nicaragua is the third safest Central American country. In 2006, there were only 200 reported vehicle robberies in Managua.
- Lake Xolotlán or Lake Managua measures 1,042 square kilometers and is about 25 kilometers wide and 65 kilometers in length. The lake’s maximum depth is 20 meters, with some portion only about 9.5 meters deep. It has a rich marine life, including fish species that are also be found on Lake Cocibolca or Lake Nicaragua, which is Central America’s largest lake. Unfortunately, Lake Managua has been extensively polluted since the 1920s. During the 1998 Hurricane Mitch, the lake’s waters rose by three meters or ten feet, flooding much of the area. Lake Managua has become a refuse for chemical and other waste products. The German government has been assisting the Nicaraguan government to help clean up the lake’s waters. The water decontamination project was inaugurated in 2009, and it is going to be the largest project of its kind in all of Central America.
- Managua is blessed with many indigenous flowers and plants, some of which are only found in the country. These include the chilamate tree that sprout aerial roots that reach down into the ground and take hold; genizaro or rain tree (also monkeypod), ceibo, a flowering tree that bears large deep red flowers resembling anthuriums; pochote, a flowering tree with large short thorns on its trunk; piñuela, which is a relative of the pineapple plant and royal palms. The national tree of the country is the madroño, while its national flower is the sweet-smelling frangipani. Some of the beautiful flowers in Managua though are very poisonous and these include the lantana, oleander, trumpet vine and death lily flower.
- The Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Nicaragua is the main public university in the country. The state-funded university dates back to 1812. Managua is also home to one of the best business schools in Latin America. The privately run Central American Institute of Business Administration or Instituto Centroamerican de Administracion de Empresas (INCAE) was ranked as the number one business school in Latin America for the years 2004 and 2005. In 2006, the Wall Street Journal placed the school in the top ten international business schools.
- In 1990, the country of Nicaragua became the first Central American country to elect a female head of state. President Violeta Chamorro also became the second female head of state in the Western Hemisphere.
- Traditionally, the city and country have been vehemently against homosexuality. However, as of 2008, homosexuality is no longer an illegal crime and does not carry a prison sentence. Same sex sexual activity has been legalized with a consenting age of 18. There is one gay hotel in the city, Viva Guesthouse. Gay men are more open in the city than female lesbians.
- The Central American city of Managua is a sister or twin city to many important cities around the world. These include the Latin and Central American cities of Bogota, Caracas, Curitiba, Guatemala, Panama City, Quito, Rio de Janeiro, San Jose in Costa Rica, Tegucigalpa in Honduras, Santiago de Chile and San Salvador and La Paz in Bolivia. It is also a sister city to Amman in Jordan, Amsterdam, Madrid, Montreal, the American cities of Miami and Madison in Wisconsin, the French cities of Montelimar and Rans, and the city of Taipei.
References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Managua
http://wikitravel.org/en/Managua
http://www.xpatulator.com/cost-of-living-review/Nicaragua-Managua_148.cfm
http://www.moon.com/destinations/nicaragua/managua/entertainment-and-events/festivals
http://www.nicaragua.com/national-holidays/
http://tripadvisor.com