Founded on the shore of Lake Nicaragua in 1524 by Francisco Fernandez de Cordoba, Granada, Nicaragua, is the nation's oldest city, one of the oldest cities in the New World and foremost attraction for tourists from around the world.
Granada is the cleaner, better renovated and grander of Nicaragua's two colonial towns (the other being Leon). It's also superbly situated at the base of Mombacho Volcano and along the northern shore of huge Lake Nicaragua. It's also located within one hour of several noteworthy excursions to volcanoes, crater lakes, artisan villages, nature reserves and the nearby cities of Managua and Masaya. Thus, Granada makes a great base for visiting many of Nicaragua's main attractions.
Granada has two main streets, divided in their centers with greenery: Calle la Calzada leads from the main plaza and cathedral down to the lake's edge. For several blocks near the plaza it is lined by upscale restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. This is one of two major nightlife areas in town. Calle Real Xalteva heads west from La Merced Church uphill to Fortaleza de Polvora, passing upscale shops, two significant churches and a lovely park full of stone columns and greenery.
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