Matagalpa divides its appeal between the city and the highlands around it. In town, the cathedral, the Carlos Fonseca museum, and the colonial churches speak to the city's role in Nicaraguan history. Outside, the coffee fincas, the cloud forest of Cerro Apante, and the world-famous Selva Negra estate are why most visitors come here. The highlands around Matagalpa are also excellent for birdwatching — resplendent quetzals have been seen at higher elevations.