The third stop of our trip takes us to the wonderful city of León. Located in the northern part of Nicaragua, it is a large university town that is known for being the political and intellectual center of the nation. We get there on Christmas eve and it is fun to see the city all decorated with numerous nativity scenes on the town square. We also get to visit the Museum of the Revolution with an old veteran. The city is also filled with numerous very old churches dating back to the 17th century.
It’s traditional during Christmas to get fresh apples which many are coming from California and Washington!
As it is Christmas, there are several children marching bands. It’s really fun to see.
As always, corn and beans are a food staple.
The cathedral is the largest in Latin America and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is in the process of being repainted. It is gorgeous.
The town square is packed on Christmas eve!
Breakfast the next day.
The Historic Museum of the Revolution!
Our host telling us the story of Nicaragua.
Our host showing himself in the picture.
A traditional activity on Christmas is to go to the beach. It is probably the only day of the year when it is so packed!
In the afternoon, we decide to go explore the coast a bit and end up in a secret (not so secret) location called Turtle Cove Beach where the beach is pristine and there is a turtle hatchery.
On our way back to civilization.
The next day, we take a Canoe trip to a nearby reserve called Isla Juan Venado to visit a man who takes care of baby turtles.
Our host who takes care of the baby turtles. Quite a nice story: he grew up in the area and used to eat turtle eggs but then realized the need for preservation. He takes care of the baby turtles in a very DIY way, figuring it out as he goes.
Wonderful seafood.
Later in the afternoon, I decide to go visit the top of the Cathedral: yes! you can climb up, remove your shoes and walk on the bright white top of the building.
Leon is surrounded by volcanoes.
The next day, we take a trip to the town market, to prepare a Nicaraguan specialty (cooking class!).
Next, Esteli and the Northern Mountains.
