Granada, Nicaragua

Plaza de la Independencia, Granada, Nicaragua
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:06.Plaza_de_la_Independencia_de_Granada.JPG
Author: Elemaki


Granada is the fourth biggest city in Nicaragua. It covers 531 sq km (205 sq mi) and has a population of 110,000 people (2011 estimate). The city is also one of the oldest in the country. It was established by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba in 1524, making it the first European-founded city in mainland Americas.

Granada was named after the city of Granada in Spain. This was to commemorate the victory of the Spanish over the last Moorish stronghold of Granada.

The city of Granada, Nicaragua, was developed to reflect the Moorish and Andalusian character of its namesake. This sets it apart from its sister city, León, which was created to reflect a Castilian character. Granada was also historically the sister capital to Antigua Guatemala.

Guadalupe Church, Granada, Nicaragua
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Guadalupe_Church_Granada_Nicaragua_5.jpg
Author: nakashi


The economy of Granada was traditionally supported by timber as well as the mining of gold and silver. In the past few decades, these have receded while the city becomes an increasingly important tourist destination. It has also become a retirement home for many Europeans and Americans, which has helped escalate the price of local real estate.

Visiting Granada

As Granada is to the north of Managua, you can take a bus or taxi direct from Managua Airport to Granada. There's a bus every half an hour from the airport. If you go by taxi, the fare is around $35.

Places of Interest in Granada

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