Madriz () is a department in Nicaragua. It covers an area of 1,708 km2 and has a population of 176,920 (2021 estimate). The capital is Somoto. Madriz was created from Nueva Segovia department in August 1936, and named after President José Madriz. Municipalities Las Sabanas Palacagüina San José de Cusmapa San Juan del Río Coco San Lucas Somoto Telpaneca Totogalpa Yalagüina External links Portal del Norte de Nicaragua References Departments of Nicaragua States and territories established in 1936 1936 establishments in Nicaragua