Sonsonate

Sonsonate is a city in Western El Salvador that stretches along the Río Grande de Sonsonate, surrounded by farming areas producing coffee, sugarcane, and tropical fruits. The agricultural landscape shapes the economy and character of this regional center.

The city was founded in 1552 as Villa del Espíritu Santo and relocated to its present location in 1553. It held political importance when it served as the temporary national capital from 1833 to 1834.

Holy Week celebrations take on special importance for the people here, with processions and religious observances woven into daily community life. Visitors can witness these traditions firsthand as local residents gather in the streets to commemorate this significant time of year.

The city sits roughly 65 kilometers west of San Salvador at an elevation of about 246 meters and is easily accessible by road and rail. The nearby port of Acajutla provides a convenient link for visitors exploring the wider region and the Pacific coast.

The name comes from the Nahuat language and derives from the Sensunat river, interpreted as 'four hundred waters' or 'four hundred eyes of water'. This linguistic origin reflects the city's deep historical connection to indigenous languages and traditions of the area.

Location: Central Sonsonate

Inception: May 28, 1553

Elevation above the sea: 220 m

Part of: Western El Salvador

Website: http://alcaldiadesonsonate.gob.sv/amso

GPS coordinates: 13.72065,-89.72748

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:07