The Plaza de los Leones, running northeast out of the Parque Central, is home to one of the favorite spots in Granada, and maybe even in Nicaragua: The Casa de los Leones  (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Formerly owned by the well-known Cardinal family, this spacious, old house, built around 1720, was donated to the local government in 1992 by the foundation “Casa De Los Tres Mundos” (House of the Three Worlds) to serve as an international cultural center to enrich Nicaragua's cultural environment.

Take special note of the building’s facade, which is the only surviving part of the original structure. Today, artists from all over the world and from all artistic disciplines come here to stay, work, and share their talents with members of the community through concerts, theater presentations, readings, exhibitions, courses, and workshops. Many of the performances are free.

Stop by the Casa de los Leones as soon as you arrive in Granada to get a schedule of that week’s events. While you’re there, enjoy the tranquil surroundings. There are also books, cassettes and CD’s, and other items for sale just inside the main entrance.

Granada is also the home of world-renown painter Armando Morales. You can enjoy one of his paintings up close while sipping a martini at the Cocibolca Jockey Club, but you’ll have to join first: it’s a private club.