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Culture
 Earthquakes and warfare have destroyed much of the Nicaraguan cultural heritage but colonial building can still be found in the cities of Leon and Granada.
Poetry is the most popular art in Nicaragua and the poet Ruben Dario (1867- 1916) is worldwide known as the "Prince of Spanish and American literature". Later the turbulent years of the 50's and 60's created a new generation of revolutionary poets and novelists.
The Nicaraguans like to mix dance and theatre and you can often enjoy shows in Managua, Masaya, Diriamba, Matagalpa, Leon and Granada. One of those popular theatrical inspired dances is "El Güegüense" that satirically represents the impression of Nicaragua's indigenous people by the first arrival of the Spanish.
Nicaragua's calendar is full of Patron Saint Festivals and celebrations that involve lots of religious symbols and signs which are influenced by the ancient indigenous cultures that are still present thanks to the oral tradition. All celebrations have a solemn mass that is conducted by the local priest or the diocesan bishop.
Following the saints' images, people offer flower arrangements and give offerings of little gold and silver objects. This is especially common in the Pueblos Blancos (White Towns), near Granada City. Everybody take part in the celebrations. Children, parents and the elderly, dance, sing and pray. Food and music are the main components of these manifestations along with Equestrian Parades and Bullfights.
Music is a very important element in the Nicaraguan society and is heard everywhere. Latin American music, such as salsa, merengue and romantic songs, are popular as well as pop and rock from Europe and the United States. The English-speaking town Bluefields on the Caribbean coast is a center for reggae music brought there by the regions black population.
 Most popular among Nicaraguan artworks are hammocks, rocking chairs, soapstone carving and basketwork, which can be purchased all over the country. A special place for handicraft is the Solentiname Archipelago in the southeast of Lake of Nicaragua. The people of the region makes their living from artwork and paintings that are being produced in almost every house on the islands and the site is a popular destination for artists from all over the world looking for a quiet place where they can find inspiration to be creative.
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