The Archipelago of Solentiname is composed of 36 enchanted islands in the southern-most sector of the immense Lake Nicaragua— near the Río San Juan delta — it is probably Nicaragua’s best-kept secret. It holds the mysteries of civilizations past; the wonder of Lake Cocibolca’s (Lake Nicaragua) abundant wildlife; and the artistic passions of a people who have indelibly made their mark in Nicaragua’s cultural history.
Part of what makes these islands so special is their immense silence, the peace and tranquility of their beauty. Over thirty- three years ago Father Ernesto Cardenal came to Solentiname and developed a contemplative community. He lived among the peasants and told them about the gospel. They understood the gospel and related it to a society without exploitation and poverty, similar to the way early Christians lived.
This history is recorded in a book titled " El Evangelio de Solentiname" which has been translated into many languages. Ernesto Cardenal also discovered the creativity of the people and promoted art and literature in the community. Painting about the struggles of daily life and the beautiful natural surroundings flourished in the community. Solentiname is now known for its distinctive school of colorful primitivist painting.
The social, cultural and economic life of the people of Solentiname was transformed. Today, there are more than fifty painters and artisans working on the islands. Cardenal, still maintains a home on the main island, Mancarrón. The primitive art of Solentiname has been recognized in Nicaragua and internationally. Paintbrushes have replaced the guns. Today only the occasional shriek of a bird defending its nest pierces the quiet and solitude of the Solentiname Islands.
Tourists, instead of soldiers, explore the 36 islets that make up the archipelago located at the southern end of Lake Nicaragua. Now that peace has broken out, the friendly Nicaraguans proudly show off the unspoiled beauty of their country and the talents of their artisans.
