This is a beautiful archipelago of islands located in the southern end of Lake Nicaragua and it is also a natural reserve. These islands are the perfect refuge for monkeys and birds, since they seem to be isolated and safe. These islands are famous for the native paintings that are there. They are also famous for making wood carvings that are light and colorful  making them easy to carry around should you purchase any.

Some History of Solentiname:
In the 1970’s, under the leadership of Ernesto Cardenal, priest, poet and former Minister of Culture in the Sandinista government in Nicaragua, a group of fishermen and country folk developed a painting school that became known as Escuela Primitivista de Solentiname. This form of art has become world famous.

By 1974 the campesinos (peasant) and fishermen of the archipelago of Solentiname were busy painting many scenes reflecting their daily lives. These paintings were soon being shown at art galleries in New York.

As well as their lifestyles and values, the painters also used a religious movement that had a deep impact on them: liberation theology.  The painting of Gloria Guevara, "Cristo Guerillero," drawn in 1975 is an example of this and depicts the struggle to practice their religion free from oppression.  The gap between religion and revolution evaporated.

Careli Tours offers you Multiday Packages so that you can not only visit the beautiful islands but other places of incredible natural value.

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Nicaragua Map