Nagarote

Nagarote
Municipality
Nagarote Location in Nicaragua
Coordinates:
Country	Nicaragua
Department	León Department
Area
• Municipality	598.38 km2 (231.04 sq mi)
Population (2005)
• Municipality	32,303
• Density	54/km2 (140/sq mi)
• Urban	18,000
Time zone	Central (CST) (UTC-6)

Nagarote (Spanish pronunciation: [naɣaˈɾote]) is a municipality in the León department of Nicaragua with a population of approximately 32,000 people.

The city of Nagarote itself is home to about 18,000 people whilst the rural areas surrounding it are inhabited by about 14,000 people. It is located 42 km (26 mi) from Managua.

History

Nagarote formerly had a sea port called Puerto Sandino. This port was attacked in 1983, which destroyed the port. The city of Nagarote itself is home to some 18,000 people whilst the rural areas surrounding it are inhabited by an estimated 14,000 people. Nagarote's economy is largely based on cattle ranching and agriculture. Its fertile soils give rise to crops such as soybeans, cotton, peanuts, corn, vegetables and tobacco. Salt is also produced in the municipality. It previously had a flourishing sea port called Puerto Sandino. This port was attacked in 1983, with much destruction to the facilities.

Nagarote is well known for its stunning natural surroundings. The coastline extends some 24 km and has wide open beaches and sparkling waters. Xolotlán Lake is also a tourist hot-spot during the summer months. Nagarote boasts some of the best beaches in Nicaragua. Over and above the natural attractions in the municipality of Nagarote, there are also several interesting historical attractions. One such site is the Paochial Temple of Nagarote. This marvelous structure was declared a National Monument in December 1955. The temple was constructed in 1575 in the style that was typical at the time. It is noted for is historical value and sheer stateliness. Another popular attraction worth visiting is the famous tree of Nagarote. This large tree has been in existence for some 950 years. A remarkable natural structure, the tree has been a constant feature in a growing city. A park has been created around the tree.

If you happen to be in Nicaragua towards the end of July, head off to Nagarote for the celebrations dedicated to the city's patron Santiago Apostle. Celebrations begin on 24 July with bullfights, games and dancing. 26 July is called Santa Ana day. Celebrations end on 28 July. Nagarote certainly has much to offer visitors and a trip there is well worth it.

International relations

See also: List of twin towns and sister cities in Nicaragua

Twin towns – Sister cities

Nagarote is paired with Norwalk, Connecticut in the U.S. as the result of a sister city consortium to pair six U.S. communities with six in Nicaragua for the purposes of fostering community development, and operates as the Norwalk/Nagarote Sister City Project.

Norwalk, Connecticut

External links

• Norwalk-Nagarote Sister City Project, a nonprofit located in Norwalk, CT, in the U.S.