Managua

Managua is the capital and administrative center of Nicaragua located in the Managua Department. The area stretches from the shores of Lake Xolotlán toward the flat plains that lead to the Pacific coast, covering residential neighborhoods, commercial zones and agricultural land.

The city was declared capital in 1852 to end a long rivalry between competing towns in the region. In the decades that followed the surrounding area grew and experienced several earthquakes that reshaped the layout of settlements and buildings.

On weekends families gather in parks and public squares to spend time together and share traditional meals prepared at home. Local markets fill with vendors selling fresh produce and handmade goods, and shoppers often stop to chat with sellers they have known for years.

Many places are spread across a large area, so public buses or taxis are needed to move between different neighborhoods and towns. Roads can be busy during rush hours, especially in the morning and late afternoon.

Lake Xolotlán is one of the few large freshwater lakes in Central America that borders a capital city directly. Fishermen have used its waters for generations, though environmental conditions have changed over time.

Location: Managua Department

Inception: March 24, 1819

Elevation above the sea: 143 m

Website: https://managua.gob.ni

GPS coordinates: 12.15437,-86.27377

Latest update: December 15, 2025 01:25