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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC -- METROPOLIS -----------------54[ARTICLE] | |||
The Colonial Capital of Santo Domingo
By Estefanía Muriel for Ruta Pantera on 7/25/2025 8:01:18 PM |
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| The Colonial City of Santo Domingo is the historic heart of the Dominican capital and one of the most important cultural destinations in the Caribbean. Founded in 1498 by Bartholomew Columbus, brother of Christopher Columbus, it is the first European city in the New World. This area, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, preserves a remarkable collection of colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic fortresses that tell the story of the beginning of colonization in the Americas. Among its jewels are the Primate Cathedral of the Americas, built between 1512 and 1540, and the Ozama Fortress, the oldest fortress on the continent. Walking through the Colonial City is like stepping back more than 500 years in Latin American history. | ||||
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What makes the Colonial City unique A curious fact is that Las Damas Street, which runs through the Colonial City, is the first paved street in the New World. Furthermore, this city was the site of the first cathedral, university, and hospital in the Americas. It's also relevant to mention that parts of movies like The Godfather II and Fast and Furious 4 were filmed in its buildings , thanks to its well-preserved colonial aesthetic. Every corner is steeped in urban legends, such as the one about the spirit that roams the Dominican Convent, and some museums even offer themed nighttime tours with a mysterious twist. | |||
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Highlights you can't miss Visiting the Colonial City also means sampling its excellent cuisine. A must-see is the Mesón de Bari restaurant , located on Hostos Street, where visitors can try the famous Dominican dish "la bandera" (rice, beans, and meat) for approximately $9 USD. Also recommended is the shrimp mofongo, a staple on many local menus, with prices ranging from $12–15 USD. As for parties, don't miss Santo Domingo's Carnival in February, when the Colonial City is filled with parades, music, and traditional costumes. Also in August is the Long Night of the Museums , a free cultural event where the area's main museums stay open until midnight, with concerts and street performances. Options to continue discovering Very close to the Colonial City are important attractions. The Museum of the Royal Houses offers an immersion in colonial history for an admission fee of $2 USD. You can also visit the National Pantheon, where the remains of Dominican national heroes rest, and admission is free. Just a few meters away, the Alcázar de Colón, home to Christopher Columbus's son, Diego Colón, charges $1.66 USD for general admission. Colón Park, just in front of the Cathedral, is another must-see spot, ideal for resting, watching street performers, and taking iconic photos. About a 15-minute drive away is Independence Park, home to the Altar of the Fatherland, and also the Museum of the Dominican Man, which focuses more on the country's Taíno and African roots, with admission for $2.50 USD. The best way to access the place Getting to the Colonial City from Las Américas International Airport involves a journey of approximately 30 km, equivalent to about 40 minutes by taxi, at an approximate cost of $34 USD. There are multiple accommodation options within the colonial zone. Boutique hotels such as the Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando offer rooms starting at $120 USD per night, while more affordable hostels such as Casa Naemie or Island Life Hostel range from $25 to $40 USD per night. Getting around the area is best on foot, as most streets are pedestrianized or have limited traffic. Alternatively, you can use the motoconcho (motorbike taxi) or Uber, which operate very well in the city, with fares between $2 and $4 USD for short trips. The best times to visit are between December and April, when the weather is cooler and drier. May through October tend to be hotter and rainier, with a higher likelihood of tropical storms, although this is also the low season for tourism and prices drop. Practical and safety tips In terms of practical advice, it's recommended to wear light but comfortable clothing, use sunscreen, and stay hydrated, especially if visiting during the warmer months. Although the Colonial Zone is fairly safe and well patrolled by the Tourist Police, it's best to avoid dark streets at night and avoid displaying valuables. Carrying some cash in Dominican pesos can be useful for small purchases or entry fees, although many establishments accept cards. It's also suggested to wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. The friendliness of the Dominican people is an essential part of the experience, so don't hesitate to interact with the locals to learn more about the oral history of this vibrant and unique place. | |||
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