Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
San Rafael del Norte
POP 5400 / ELEV 1085M
One of the highest towns in Nicaragua, charming San Rafael del Norte is surrounded by
soaring, fissured peaks with coffee
fincas
on their shoulders. Founded in the 1660s, it is
rich in culture and a great jumping-off point for hikes and outdoor activities high in the
mountains.
Sights & Activities
Templo Parroquial de San Rafael Arcángel
Beginning in 1955, the revered Father Odorico D'Andrea turned this antiquated cathedral
into a labor of divine love. It's impeccably restored, with a soaring interior flooded with
light streaming through stained-glass skylights that illuminate a wonderful altar and a series
of inspiring murals painted by Austrian artist Juan Fuchs Holl in 1967 and 1968.
It's no wonder it was made a National Artistic Monument in 2000.
CHURCH
Santuario Cerro Tepeyac
Climb the staircase that disappears into the trees at the northern end of town to find the fi-
nal resting place of Father Odorico D'Andrea at this hillside church modeled after the
Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Mexico. You can pay your respects at the popular
priest's grave out the back.
CHURCH
Museo Sandino
(Parque, 30m N; admission by donation; 9am-4pm)
Closed for a major facelift at the time of
research, the Museo Sandino honors Nicaragua's national hero, Augusto César Sandino,
who married local girl Blanca Aráuz in 1927. The museum is set in her parents' former
home, later used as a telegraph house.
Inside are a rack of Sandino's old rifles, his typewriter, newspaper articles and political
posters, and just about every existing photo of Sandino with his 'Crazy Little Army.' The
anniversary of the Sandinos' wedding day, which took place here on May 18, 1927, is still
one of the best parties of the year.
MUSEUM
El Jaguar
PARK
