Cultural tourism in the Dominican Republic: Discover 19 amazing places you must visit in the Colonial City

Located in Santo Domingo, the colonial city or "Ciudad Colonial," as named by locals, was founded in 1498. It is a remarkable place where native, European, and African cultures crossed paths, developing a unique mixture of knowledge, language, beliefs, and experiences. As you walk through the streets of the Colonial City, you will feel connected to its European heritage, as it has preserved most of its architectural monumental structures and streets almost unaltered. This is the city where the first cathedral, the first hospital, the first university, and the first customs office on the American continent were built.

The Colonial City has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and it is one of the main tourist attractions of Santo Domingo. There are years of fascinating history in every part of the city, so come along while we show you the best places to visit and explore in La Ciudad Colonial.

1. El Conde Street

El Conde is an iconic street that you must walk through for many reasons. This is where the first art deco and elevator-integrated buildings appeared in the Dominican Republic. It is currently a very busy pedestrian street full of artisanal shops, a variety of businesses, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

During the period known as La Danza de Los Millones, there were small cinemas and various hotels on this street, and it was decorated with trees that gave it a European appearance. Today, it boasts a lot of Caribbean and contemporary decorations, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

2. Columbus Park

This park was created during the colonial period along with several other residential and commercial buildings. This was the main entertainment center back in the day since it gave life and splendor to the town of La Isabela and its surroundings. You can easily get there by walking through the end of Calle El Conde.

Nowadays, many buildings surround the park, such as Santo Domingo's Municipal Palace and the church, as well as many restaurants and shops, so you can relax and have a good time while you're visiting. A statue of Christopher Columbus was laid in its center, in whose honor the square was renamed in 1887.

3. San Nicolás de Bari Hospital Ruins

This is the oldest hospital built in the Americas, and it got its name from Saint Nicholas of Bari. The hospital began operating in 1522 and provided services to more than 60 people daily. However, it was abandoned in the middle of the 18th century due to financial reasons and a lack of personnel and resources.

The ruins, which are remains of a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, are located on Hostos and Luperón Street. This hospital also survived numerous historical events, such as pirate attacks, earthquakes, and countless revolutions.

4. The First Church in America

The Dominican Republic has places devoted to saints and religious figures in Catholicism, and the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor is no exception. The front has a golden-tinted coral limestone façade. The building is mainly Gothic, one of the few examples of real Gothic architecture outside Europe. There is also a treasury that has an art collection of ancient wood carvings, furnishings, funerary monuments, silver, and jewelry. It is located between Calle Arzobispo Merino and Isabel la Católica, next to Columbus Park in the city of Santo Domingo de Guzman. There are services performed at this church on rare Sundays and special occasions such as religious holidays.

5. Ozama Fortress

This is the oldest fortress built by the Europeans in the Americas to protect the city from the attacks of pirates, corsairs, and conquerors who stalked the place. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Ozama Fortress incorporates the Torre del Homenaje, a massive medieval tower made of coral stone. This square building dates from 1503 and contains an iron spiral staircase. From the top of its 18 meters, you can admire the entire city and the Ozama River. The statue in front of the building depicts Gonzalo Fernández de Oviedo y Valdés, governor of the fortress from 1533 to 1557.

6. Panteón de la Patria

This is truly a place you must see on your trip to the colonial city. Panteón de la Patria was originally built in the 18th century as a temple of the religious folks in the country, but as the years went by, it was turned into the mausoleum, which bears the remains of great figures of the Dominican Republic. Its facade is very sober and has a neoclassical style. The upper part has a cornice, a bell tower, and two stone statues on both sides of the bell tower. The inside is made up of a central part with a cross and chapels on the sides. It has been used for different functions over time: theater, tobacco warehouse, or even headquarters of public offices.

7. Alcázar de Colón

The Alcázar de Colón, or Columbus Alcazar, is one of the most notable historic buildings in the Colonial City. This palace was built by Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, and served as the residence of the Columbus family. The building, constructed in the early 16th century, features Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. It now houses the Museo Alcázar de Colón, showcasing period furniture, artwork, and artifacts from the colonial era.

8. Monasterio de San Francisco

The Monasterio de San Francisco is one of the most significant ruins in the Colonial City. Built in the early 16th century, it was the first monastery in the New World. The structure has seen numerous earthquakes and has been the site of various battles and historical events. Today, it stands as a testament to the colonial past, and it is a popular spot for cultural events and performances.

9. Museo de las Casas Reales

The Museo de las Casas Reales is housed in a building that was originally constructed to serve as the government headquarters for the Spanish colonies in the Americas. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the colonial history of the Dominican Republic. Exhibits include artifacts, maps, and displays related to the governance, exploration, and everyday life in the colony.

10. Plaza de la Hispanidad

Plaza de la Hispanidad, also known as Plaza España, is one of the largest open spaces in the Colonial City. It is surrounded by significant historic buildings, including the Alcázar de Colón. The plaza is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, hosting events, concerts, and festivals. It offers a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the historical ambiance of the area.

11. Casa de Tostado

The Casa de Tostado is a beautifully preserved colonial home that now functions as a museum. The house dates back to the 16th century and provides a glimpse into the domestic life of the colonial elite. The museum features period furnishings, artwork, and exhibits on the history of the building and its inhabitants.

12. National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic

The National Pantheon is another key landmark in the Colonial City. This building serves as the final resting place for many of the country's national heroes. The structure was originally a Jesuit church built in the 18th century. It features a neoclassical facade and an interior adorned with memorials and tombs.

13. Parque Independencia

Parque Independencia is a historic park that marks the site where the Dominican Republic declared its independence from Haiti in 1844. The park is home to the Altar de la Patria, a mausoleum containing the remains of the country's founding fathers: Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez, and Matías Ramón Mella. The park is a symbol of national pride and a significant site for Dominican history.

14. Iglesia de las Mercedes

The Iglesia de las Mercedes is a beautiful church located in the Colonial City. It was built in the 16th century and is dedicated to Our Lady of Mercy, the patroness of the Dominican Republic. The church features a mix of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles and houses numerous religious artifacts and artworks.

15. Puerta del Conde

Puerta del Conde is a historic gate that once served as the main entrance to the city. It is named after Bernardo de Meneses y Bracamonte, Count of Peñalva, who played a significant role in defending the city from attacks. The gate is part of the larger Fortaleza Ozama complex and is a notable historical landmark.

16. Museo del Ron y la Caña

For those interested in the cultural heritage of rum production, the Museo del Ron y la Caña offers an intriguing experience. The museum is dedicated to the history and production of rum and sugar cane in the Dominican Republic. Visitors can learn about the process of rum-making and the significance of this industry to the country's economy and culture.

17. Calle Las Damas

Calle Las Damas is the oldest paved street in the Americas, named after the ladies of the court who would stroll along its path. This historic street is lined with significant buildings, including the Fortaleza Ozama, the Museo de las Casas Reales, and the Panteón de la Patria. Walking down Calle Las Damas offers a step back in time to the early days of the colonial period.

18. Plaza María de Toledo

Plaza María de Toledo is a charming square named after María de Toledo, the wife of Diego Columbus. The plaza is surrounded by historic buildings and offers a tranquil space to relax and enjoy the surroundings. It is a lesser-known but delightful spot to explore in the Colonial City.

19. Iglesia Regina Angelorum

The Iglesia Regina Angelorum is another beautiful church in the Colonial City, known for its stunn ing architecture and historical significance. Built in the 16