Municipality of Candelaria
Candelaria is a municipality in the Lempira department in Honduras. The meaning of the name is Joconguera (Water of the Jocones).
History
It was founded on August 3, 1607, under the name «San Francisco de Joconguera» according to agreement and decree No. 5. In 1872, it received the title of Villa, and on February 20, 1897, during the presidency of Dr. Policarpo Bonilla, it was granted the category of Municipality with the name «Candelaria de Joconguera,» and the status of a city by decree No. 68 on February 22, 1939.
Geography
This municipality is located in the descent from the Congolón Mountain, so its vegetation is in transition from coniferous to broadleaf trees due to the increase in temperature. The settlement originated in a hollow at the foot of the mountain, surrounded by steep hills, some without vegetation, and with streams that are useful for local water supply, although most of them dry up during the summer.
Boundaries
Candelaria is bordered to the north by the municipality of Gualcince, to the south by the municipality of Virginia, to the east by the municipality of Piraera, and to the west by the municipalities of Gualcince and Mapulaca.
Territorial extension: 52 km²
Geographical location
It is located 96 km from the city of Gracias, following the road that leads to the Intibucá department. In the town of San Juan del Caite de Intibuca, there is a junction that leads to the border municipalities and to the city of La Esperanza Intibucá. The road is unpaved and is constantly repaired by the Honduran Coffee Fund and the Road Fund by the government. You must be aware of taking the right turn at a fork located 76 km from Gracias.
Resources
Due to its elevation above sea level, it is not a favorable place for coffee cultivation. However, its location on the route to the border with El Salvador has made it a city of upward trade, which is why the US Dollar can be found in circulation along with the national currency. Basic grain crops for subsistence predominate.
Drinking water is obtained from wells and some local streams. There is electricity in the city and neighboring villages, as well as a fuel station. There is a cooperative organization that promotes local production. Grocery stores and other necessities make the stay easier.
Population
Just like in several other municipalities, people exhibit characteristics of mixed heritage resulting from the mixing of indigenous people from the area and the Spaniards who arrived to colonize. It is also common to see individuals with features specific to each race.
Population: In 2001, the population was 6,141 inhabitants. According to estimates by the INE Honduras, it is projected to increase to 6,746 inhabitants by 2008.
Villages: 5
Hamlets: 48
Tourism
The city of Candelaria is very picturesque and can be enjoyable for visitors due to some details of colonial architecture, such as the layout of neighborhoods around the main square.
There are two quite comfortable lodgings available, as well as many small businesses. Mobile phone services are available. There are also three locations with internet access, one of them being in the City Hall.
