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Jinotega-Nicaragua
Historical Sites,
Rural Villages, Spectacular Nature
Description
High mountains, large valleys, and many hills mark the scenery in
the department of Jinotega. Historical sites, rural villages,
spectacular nature – including Nicaragua’s largest natural reserve –
and the country’s most important artificial lake can all be found in
this area. Tourism development is still at its infancy in Jinotega,
but for people who do not require five star hotels and who do not
mind putting in some extra effort to reach beautiful, remote
locations this department has a lot to offer.
The city of Jinotega is located at an elevation of about 1,000
meters, in a valley surrounded by spectacular mountains. This valley
was already inhabited during pre-Columbian times by different
indigenous groups. The Spanish arrived at the beginning of the 17th
century and soon took control of the area. Most traces of the
indigenous population have vanished, but an interesting collection
of artifacts and other historical objects have been preserved and
are exhibited in the Harvey Wells Museum in Jinotega.
There are many comfortable, friendly hotels and good restaurants
located in the city of Jinotega, and it is a great place to stay
while exploring the area. Many attractions can be easily reached
from the city, and it has a pleasant climate with temperatures
hovering between 18 and 22 degrees. Because of the height, the whole
department enjoys temperatures that are considered low compared to
the Pacific lowlands.
The city of Jinotega can be reached by taking the road from
Matagalpa. The city is only 32 kilometers from Matagalpa, but the
poor conditions of the road make it often take up to an hour to
reach Jinotega. The road is paved but large holes make it impossible
to drive fast. It is possible to get here in a sedan, although
high-clearance vehicles are more convenient because of the deep
holes.
The small village of San Rafael del Norte is located only 25
kilometers from Jinotega, and it can be reached by taking a
surprisingly good road. This town is famous because it was the
birthplace of the wife of the national hero Augusto C. Sandino. The
general, who fought for an independent Nicaragua, fell in love here
with Blanca Aráuz when he lived in the town in 1927. The family
house of his wife is nowadays a museum where historical objects like
old newspaper articles, a letter from Sandino, and American arms
take visitors back to the time when Sandino and his men fought
against foreign dominance.
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