City of Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic). City of Santo Domingo, capital of the Dominican Republic Santo Domingo is the capital

, Santo Domingo, often called " living history“, although, at first glance, this is a typical Latin American metropolis with high-rise buildings, residential areas built for different segments of the population, huge shops, expensive boutiques, restaurants and educational institutions. As in any other big city , in the capital, there are many pros and cons.

Pros and cons of Santo Domingo

If we consider the city from the point of view of a beach holiday, then there’s not much to do here - practically the only beach Santo Domingo is private beach on its outskirts is Aura Beach: there are no crowds of tourists here, and in a small restaurant you can enjoy freshly caught seafood.

That, perhaps, is the whole value of the beach.

But actually, no one goes to Santo Domingo for beach holiday. You can spend much more useful time here studying the historical monuments of Santo Domingo, and there are a great many of them here, because the capital of the Dominican Republic is a city with an extraordinary, “living” history and rich traditions.

So much has happened on this land: it has been home to both discoverers and conquerors, literally everything here is imbued with the spirit of historical events, and the houses built with special care in the colonial style remind of the difficult fate of this city, which marked the beginning of the path of conquest towards both Americas.

History of Santo Domingo

The history of America began precisely from the capital of the Dominican Republic, at the moment when Christopher Columbus first set foot on its shores in 1492. Due to the fact that this city resembled a paradise, the first settlers from Europe chose the current capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo.

During the colonial wars, the purpose of which was control over sea routes, this city was inhabited, displacing each other, by the Dutch, the Spaniards, the French, the British and the Portuguese.

And another battle was fought from the sea - pirates robbed ships sailing to the shores, devastating them and terrifying the brave sailors.

All these historical events could not pass without a trace either for the history or for the architecture of Santo Domingo, therefore, having arrived in the modern Latin American metropolis of Santo Domingo today, you can plunge into the events of bygone days and feel the unique atmosphere that reigned here many centuries ago.

Sights of Santo Domingo

A particularly colorful place is Santo Domingo, its colonial quarter with many historical monuments, for example the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the construction of which dates back to the 16th century. This quarter is capable of not letting tourists out of the embrace of that famous era for a long time.

IN historical center there is a building that once belonged to the governor of Hispaniola, Nicolas de Ovando, after whom it is named. Everything here reminds us of how he ruled the island from here at the beginning of the 16th century. This building amazes with its luxury, massive columns and a charming courtyard in which amazing tropical plants grow.

Nearby is the governor's palace, called Alcazar de Colon, built in the 16th century. Today, this building has become an art museum, which displays exhibitions from the Renaissance and the Middle Ages.

However, the historical events of Santo Domingo have long since sunk into the past and the city lives in the present: the ancient cobblestone streets of the colonial quarter are lined with luxurious restaurants, boutiques and hotels, and modern residents no longer resemble their heroic ancestors.

But still, the old historical center of modern Santo Domingo has that special magic and charm that is inherent in cities with a rich history and cultural heritage.

While vacationing in the Dominican Republic, be sure to book a tour of historical places Santo Domingo in order to touch living history of the capital of the Dominican Republic, You will be interested!

Because of Haiti's location, Spanish King Philip II called it "the key to the Western Indian lands." The islanders call it “the jaw of a crocodile ready to slam shut on Cuba’s tail.” Two states coexist in Haiti: Haiti (in the western part of the island) and the Dominican Republic, which owns two-thirds of the territory. The 360-kilometer border separating the two countries is limited to the north and south. The Mona Channel, a terror to all sailors due to its strong currents and fierce winds, separates the island from Puerto Rico to the east.

The capital of Santo Domingo is the most ancient city in the New World. It was founded on August 4, 1496 on the eastern bank of the Osman River by brother Bartolomeo and named New Isabella. But a strong hurricane destroyed the houses, and Nicholas de Ovanda moved the city to the other side of the river.

According to the Spaniards, Santo Domingo was built as a stronghold of their colonial rule in. It is no coincidence that historians call it an example of a colonial city of the 16th century. It created the first viceroyalty among the Spanish colonies. The city was the main base from where expeditions of adventurers, church ministers and Spanish soldiers were sent to conquer neighboring countries. The city is famous for the fact that in 1493 the first battle of the Indians with the Spaniards took place there, as well as an uprising of the local population under the leadership of the cacique Enriquillo, with whom the Spanish king Charles V was forced to enter into an agreement in 1533.

Santo Domingo became the first university city in America, the first cathedral and the first hospital were built here, and also housed royal residence. In 1508 the city received its own coat of arms. For many centuries, Santo Domingo was subjected to raids and attacks by English and French pirates, and was besieged by the famous corsair Francis Drake, who demanded a huge ransom from the townspeople.

In 1936, the capital was renamed Ciudad Trujillo in honor of the dictator Trujillo and bore this name until 1961.

Santo Domingo spreads over an area of ​​400 square kilometers along the Caribbean coast, having long since overstepped its natural boundaries along the Haussmann rivers in the east, Aina in the west and Isabela in the north, and has become one of the largest cities in America. The city is, as it were, divided into squares by the main city arteries, intersecting at right angles, therefore, in order to navigate it, you need to remember the names of the main streets, which the Dominicans themselves use to name the addresses: Churchill, Lincoln, Maxime Gomez, Duarte cross the city from north to south; The Malecon, Independencia, Bolivar, Mexico, Kennedy and 27 February run from west to east.

Stately buildings in the Gothic style with elements of Romanesque and Arabic architecture testify to Santo Domingo's former importance as the capital of a large colony. Old town declared by UNESCO a cultural heritage of humanity.

The oldest cobbled street in the New World was called Ladies' Street, because in those distant times it was filled with carriages of court ladies of the vice-queen of the colony, the niece of the king and wife of Diego Columbus, Maria de Toledo.

Osama Fortress was built between 1502-1507 by order of Nicolo de Ovando to protect the city from pirate attacks. This fortification is the very first one built in the New World.

The Alcazar Palace is located on the esplanade above the Osama River. It was built by the son of Diego Columbus, who became viceroy of the Spanish colonies after Ovando. 1,500 natives, under the leadership of a Spanish architect, worked on its construction, extracting durable pieces of coral reefs from the depths of the sea. The palace of 22 rooms with 72 doors and windows was built without a single nail.

The Dominican Museum is one of the richest museums in the country. It houses an exhibition telling about Dominican culture from prehistoric times to the present day. Most of it is dedicated to the life of the Indian tribes of the island before the arrival of Europeans: objects of pagan cults and amulets are presented here. There is also an exhibition of carnival masks and traditional masquerade costumes.

The construction of the Columbus Lighthouse was timed to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America in 1992. It rises on a hill in the Mirador del Este park in the eastern part of the city on the very spot where the first lighthouse, built by Spanish navigators in 1496, once stood.

The city of Santo Domingo is located in the southeast of the island called Haiti, in one of the regions of the south of the Dominican Republic, far from. It occupies a fairly large area on the dry land of the Caribbean Sea. The city has total area about one hundred square kilometers, which is home to about 2,200,000 people. Among them are representatives of the Negroid race, as well as mulattoes and Europeans.

This capital of the Dominican Republic was the very first city in the New World and was built in 1496 by the brother of the famous admiral Christopher Columbus, Bartholomew Columbus. The city is distinguished by very small streets, as well as shady squares, each of which is full of various surprises that are revealed only by walking.

What's the best way to get to Santo Domingo?

Santo Domingo has two international airports: Herrera and Las Americas. From them you can get to the central part of the city by taxi around the clock. Private taxi drivers can be called by phone, and they also have fixed cost rates to a given destination.

In addition, you can rent a car both at the airport and at the hotel. In order to rent a car for a period of no more than ninety days, the following package of documents will be required: a credit card, as well as a driver’s license. Of course, it will be possible to rent a car only if you are twenty-one years old.

There are a large number of oversized speed bumps and very large holes on the city's roads. In cities, the speed limit is sixty kilometers per hour, and on highways - one hundred kilometers per hour, unless there are other traffic signs.

Climate of Santo Domingo

The city is famous for its humid tropical climate. The average air temperature for the year is +25 degrees. And the rains here most often fall from May to November and are accompanied by the strongest hurricanes. The sun stays above the city throughout the entire period - from December to April, with minimal precipitation observed. This is the best time to visit Santo Domingo.

We can safely say that the entire city is completely imbued with traditional Caribbean charm. All this is combined with a well-defined Latin atmosphere, thanks to which Santo Domingo is the most romantic and cheerful city in the whole world, which, against their will, attracts a large number of those who value the unknown and love the exotic.

Prices in restaurants and local stores

If you love souvenirs and shopping, head to Poligono Central. You can get around the city using public transport, which includes minibuses and buses, as well as taxis and even the metro. Except large number most interesting places and attractions, the capital has a large number of cafes, snack bars and restaurants, which is why you don’t have to worry that there won’t be decent places to eat in this city.

The culinary dishes offered in snack bars, restaurants and cafes represent traditions of both African and Caribbean and even European cuisine. Most often, beans, bananas, as well as various meat and vegetable combinations are used in their production.

Drinks in the city are most often served exotic, which are typical for Americans. You can also see on the menus of restaurants, snack bars and cafes various fruit juices, locally brewed beer, traditional American rum and the famous Pina Colada.

Must see in Santo Domingo

This city has a large number of cultural and historical attractions, making it a symbol of the culture of the entire republic. In addition, the historical center of Santo Domingo was officially included by UNESCO on the World Heritage List. A large number of educational and interesting institutions that allow a large number of tourists who come here not only to replenish the baggage of their impressions, but also to enrich themselves with new knowledge, and also, most importantly, to hide from the burning rays of the sun inside rooms equipped with the most modern air conditioning systems. - about this in another material.

The architecture of this city is represented by a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic styles, which are also complemented by a very light grace of the Renaissance. The cultural heritage that the capital bears includes a large number of cultural and historical sites, of which there are about three hundred.

The true embodiment of all bygone times is the Puerta del Conde monument, which was erected in memory of all those who died during large quantity battles for an independent Dominican Republic. Cathedrals and houses, palaces and castles, hospitals and monasteries, monuments and memorials - all this, of course, is part of the history of the entire city.

The most elegant architectural structure of this city is Atarasana, which is located in the west. The complex includes eight colonial buildings, which house hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and art galleries. Also worthy of attention is a very beautiful palace called Casa del Almirante, a tower called Torre del Omenaje, as well as the picturesque Alcazar Castle, the construction of which was helped by the son of the world-famous Christopher Columbus. You should definitely visit the lighthouse named after Columbus, which houses his remains.

Misconceptions about Santo Domingo

The Dominican Republic is famous throughout the world for its beautiful beaches. But in Santo Domingo there are such good beaches not really. Despite this, all residents of the city prefer to swim in the waters of the Caribbean Sea and lie under the sun as far as possible from the bustle.

The most famous are Juan Dolio and Boca Chica, which are twenty kilometers from Santo Domingo. That is why, provided you are staying in a hotel in the capital, you need to remember to organize a nice day off in the sun, enjoying the peace and quiet on the beaches of the coast.

The oldest central part of Santo Domingo was built in the 16th century and is dominated by colonial-era monuments.

Faro Colon- a lighthouse built on the site of an ancient lighthouse erected here under Columbus. In the middle of the structure there is a sarcophagus in which the remains of the great navigator Christopher Columbus rest according to his will. The complex is guarded by a naval guard. Faro Colon has a museum that tells the history of the Dominican Republic.

At night, a beam of bright light emanates from the lighthouse, aimed at the sky; it is visible from almost anywhere in the capital. The Faro Colon complex is surrounded by a large park, which has become a favorite vacation spot for Dominicans and guests of the country. Information about the complex is available at.

Alcazar de Colon, or Columbus's Palace, is located on the esplanade above the Osama River. The structure was erected in 1514 by order of Diego Columbus, the son of Christopher Columbus, from pieces of coral reef; not a single nail was used during its construction. The building has 22 rooms, which contain a unique collection of authentic items of that era: ancient manuscripts, portraits of the owners, furniture and interior items. Information about the museum is at.

Osama Fortress- the first fortress in the New World, built between 1502-1507. In its courtyard stands the Torre del Omenaje, a witness to all the most important stages of Dominican history. The rebel Indians were kept in its dungeons, and during the Republican period prisoners were sent here. At all times, the conquerors of the Dominican Republic tried to immediately hoist their national flag on the Torre del Omenaj tower. It is worth visiting the fortress to see the tower, the ruins of the fortress wall, the old arsenal and the house of the influential Dominican Rodrigo de Bastidas, adjacent to the fortress.

In addition to the above attractions, tourists in the capital of the Dominican Republic can see Fort Concepcion (XVII century), the Captain's Palace - Casa de Bastidas (XVI century), the Sundial (1753), located at the end of Calle des las Damas, the first stone house on the island - Casa del Cordón, the so-called “House of the Ribbon” (1503), the palaces of Casa del Duarte and Casa Borghella on Isabel la Catolica Street, the first fortress of the New World - La Fortalesa (or “Fort of Worship”), the Mint - Casa de la Moneda (16th century) and the first hospital on the continent - St. Nicholas (1503-1505). It is also worth visiting the National Pantheon, the Baluarte Mausoleum or the “Altar of the Motherland”, where the graves of the founders of the Dominican Republic - Duarte, Sanchez and Mella - are located.

There are many churches in the city, which is due historically: from here the Christian church intended to bring the light of faith to the aborigines. The symbol of Santo Domingo is the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, or Cathedral of Santo Domingo.

This is a temple erected in honor of the Holy Virgin in 1514-1540. It is the oldest cathedral in America. The building is made of golden-coral limestone. The style of the cathedral combines Gothic and Baroque, with a strong Plateresque influence, which is especially noticeable in the decoration of the altar. Among the treasures of the cathedral are a rich collection of carved wooden statues, furniture, jewelry and silverware. On the cathedral square there is a monument to Christopher Columbus. In 1990, as part of the architectural colonial complex of the city of Santo Domingo, the cathedral was included in the list World Heritage UNESCO.

No less interesting are the Church of San Nicolas (XVI century), the Church of Regina Angelorum (XVI century) on Padre Bellini Street, the Dominican Monastery (Los Dominicos, 1510), the Monastery of St. Clare (1522), the chapel of St. Andrew, as well as the church and monastery of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes (1530), where the Academy of Dominican History is now located, etc.

There are many museums in Santo Domingo. The most interesting of them is the colonial museum of Las Casas Reales (1513-1520), dedicated to the voyages of Columbus and the development of Spanish culture in the New World. It is also worth visiting the Dominican Museum, located in the former home of Hernan Cortes, the House Museum of one of the founders of the Dominican Republic, Juan Pablo Duarte.

Natural park Los Tres Ojos, or “Three Eyes”, is located near the capital of the Dominican Republic. In the park you can visit a zoo, an aquarium, caves with stalactites and stalagmites, grottoes in which, at a depth of 15 meters, there are three sulfide lakes with dark blue water, which gave the name to the park. In addition, Santo Domingo has a huge number of tropical parks, among which the most popular are Duarte, Mirador del Sur, Mirador del Este and Columbus Park. The National Botanical Garden with a rich collection of tropical plants is worth visiting.

Before the arrival of Spanish sailors on the island of Haiti, it was already inhabited by tribes of Taino Indians. They called their homeland Kikeya (“mother of all lands”, “great land”), and Ahatti (“ mountainous country"). The latter name later gave the name to the entire island and a separate country - Haiti. Christopher Columbus, who discovered the island in December 1492, named it Hispaniola.

The Spaniards founded a settlement on the northern coast of the island, giving it the name of Queen Isabella, but the unfavorable climate forced the colonialists to soon leave these lands. In 1496, the younger brother of the great navigator Bartolomeo Columbus ordered to build new city in the south of the island, near the Osama River. It was called "New Isabella", but was later renamed in honor of St. Dominic, under whose name the father of the discoverer of the New World was baptized. The city of Santo Domingo stood on the east bank of the river until 1502, when it was destroyed by a powerful tropical hurricane. The new governor of Hispaniola, Nicholas de Ovando, ordered the restoration of Santo Domingo on the opposite bank of the river - in the place where it is located today.

The expeditions of Diego Velazquez de Cuellar and Hernan Cortes set off from Santo Domingo to conquer Cuba and Mexico. From here Vasco Nunez de Balboa rushed to the shores of modern Colombia, where he founded the first on the mainland spanish city. In 1509, Diego Columbus, the eldest son of the great Spaniard, arrived in Santo Domingo and was granted the title of Viceroy of the Spanish colonies. Here a residence was built for him, which became known as Alcazar de Colon.

In 1586, Santo Domingo, one of the key outposts of the West Indies, was captured with amazing ease by the English privateer, Admiral Francis Drake. He demanded a ransom from the Spaniards in order to get out of here with his team of 1,200 people. After half the city was burned and destroyed, the townspeople collected 25,000 ducats for the invaders, who had been rampaging here for about a month, although they initially demanded almost 10 times more. Satisfied, the British left, taking with them, in addition, artillery pieces from the fort.

In the mid-17th century, the British set out to take over the Spanish colonies, and in 1655 Fort Santo Domingo was attacked by an armada under the command of General Robert Venables. This time the Spaniards put up worthy resistance to the British, and they retreated. However, at the same time west coast The islands were captured by the French. In 1697, Spain had to officially recognize France's right to own these lands.

In 1791, the Haitian Revolution, the world's only successful slave uprising, began in the French colony. It ended with the formation of the first independent state in Latin America– Republic of Haiti (1804). Santo Domingo was in the hands of Haitian rebels in 1800-1801, then the French established themselves here, and then the Spaniards again. In 1821, the city of Santo Domingo became the capital of the ephemeral independent state of Spanish Haiti, which existed for 2 months, after which it was captured by the troops of Republican Haiti. In 1844, the island was finally divided into two parts: the Republic of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, with its capital in Santo Domingo.

In the following decades, Santo Domingo witnessed economic and political chaos, accompanied by countless coups. In 1916, during the Banana Wars, the Dominican Republic was occupied by the United States. The years of occupation were marked by the growth of the country's economy and the construction of infrastructure facilities in its capital, but the Dominicans were oppressed by the loss of sovereignty. The first clash, which took place in Santo Domingo between US Marines and local residents, resulted in casualties on both sides. In 1924, the Americans left the island.

In 1930 Dominican capital suffered from the deadly Hurricane San Zenon. That same year, another coup took place in the country, and General Rafael Trujillo came to power. The bloody dictator ruled the state until 1961, when he himself became a victim of a conspiracy and was killed. In the last years of the dictatorship in Santo Domingo, which was now called “Ciudad Trujillo,” mass armed protests broke out more than once. The stabilization of the situation in the country is associated with the name of President Joaquino Balaguer. It was under him that in 1978, for the first time in the history of the country, power passed to the opposition peacefully. Today the Dominican Republic is the largest economy in the region Caribbean and Central America, and Santo Domingo became famous tourist center. At the same time, the neighboring Republic of Haiti remains the poorest country in the New World.

Geography and areas

Santo Domingo is located in the southeastern part of the island of Haiti, in the south of the Dominican Republic, and occupies a flat stretch of the Caribbean coast. It spreads over an area of ​​about 104 km² along coastline, having long ago crossed its historical boundaries within the Osama rivers in the east and Isabella in the north. It was off the coast of Osama, which flows here into the Caribbean Sea, that Christopher Columbus's ship dropped anchor when his expedition first approached the island.

The Osama, which today divides the city into eastern and western parts, is one of the longest rivers in the country, but it is also the most polluted. At its mouth, almost in the very center of the city, is the port of Santo Domingo. Luxury ships dock at its modern cruise terminals, Sans Sousi to the west and Don Diego, on the opposite bank of the river. The western and eastern banks of Osama are connected by a modern bridge, built next to the old drawbridge.

Santo Domingo is divided into squares by main streets that intersect at right angles, so if you remember their names, it will be quite easy to navigate the metropolis. They are sold in any souvenir or bookstore. The main arteries, bearing the names of Churchill, Lincoln, Maximo Gomez, Juan Duarte, cross the city from north to south. Avenues Independencia, Bolivar, Kennedy, 27 February Street stretch from west to east, as does the Malecon, a 15-kilometer boulevard that runs along the Caribbean Sea through the entire city. Officially, this boardwalk is called George Washington Avenue.

Due to the enormous length of Santo Domingo, you sometimes have to travel considerable distances along the coast to get from point “A” to point “B”. This also applies to attractions that are located in different neighborhoods. In the capital of the Dominican Republic, you will often need to use public transport or a taxi if you do not intend to limit your exploration to just walks through the ancient quarters known as the Colonial or Old Town.

Roads radiate from Santo Domingo to the north, west and east; they do not intersect with each other. Tourists who want to get acquainted with different regions of the Dominican Republic will have to return each time to their starting point - the capital of the country.

Climate

In Santo Domingo, with its tropical climate, you can relax at any time of the year. The so-called summer season lasts from May to September, when daytime temperatures average +28...+31 °C, but can rise to +35 °C. The hottest months are July, August, September. Thanks to sea ​​breezes and the trade winds of Santo Domingo rarely experience suffocating heat; they moderate the humidity throughout the year, which is 65-80%.

The winter season lasts from October to April and is characterized by moderate temperatures: +25...+30 °C during the day. From November to March, cold fronts can bring short-term temperatures down to +16...+18 °C.

The greatest amount of precipitation, and usually these are short but heavy downpours, occurs from May to October, and the least - in February-March. The waters of the Caribbean Sea warm up to +29...+31 °C in the summer season, and up to +26...+27 °C in the winter.

Since the island of Haiti lies in the path of tropical cyclones moving from the Atlantic and from the Small Antilles, Santo Domingo is exposed to the elements. In July-August, cyclones, each of which is called a beautiful name in alphabetical order, are frequent guests on the island. The approach of a cyclone is preceded by rain, storm, and gusts of wind. In case of danger, the media constantly broadcast warnings, data on the development of the cyclone, and give advice on how to protect yourself. As the hurricane approaches, the pressure rises sharply, the sky takes on a leaden hue, it seems to sink lower, and the wind literally howls.

Currency

The official currency in the state is the Dominican peso, which is equal to 100 centavos. However, almost everywhere tourists can pay in American dollars. In many stores, the abbreviation of the US currency is displayed on the price tags. The main thing is not to get confused: local money is designated as RD$. Euros are rarely accepted. Rubles can only be exchanged at branches of large banks.

Note: the cost of entrance tickets to museums and some parks in Santo Domingo for foreign tourists is higher than for local residents.

Paying in dollars in the tourist areas of Santo Domingo is unprofitable: the exchange rate here is undervalued. But, if it’s more convenient for you, stock up on small dollar bills, since instead of change they may well offer sweets, chocolates and useless trinkets. The preposition is “no menudo”, that is, “no change”. In short, it is advisable to immediately exchange dollars or euros for local currency upon arrival. It is best to carry out the operation at one of the bank branches that can be found near any shopping center, or at small exchange offices in the tourist area. The most unfavorable rates are at hotels and airports.

Colonial city

The main tourist attractions of Santo Domingo are located in the area extending from west bank the Osama River to the ruins of the fort that protected the city. Luxurious ancient quarters, the architectural appearance of which is united by the Isabelline (Late Gothic) and Plateresque (Early Renaissance) styles, are designated in guidebooks as Zona Colonial. To leisurely explore about 300 architectural monuments, wander through ancient streets and squares, and admire picturesque patios, you will need at least three days.

First of all, it’s worth taking a walk along the oldest cobbled street in the New World – Ladies’ (Calle Des Las Damas). It was named so due to the fact that crews of court ladies from the retinue of the vice-queen of the Spanish colony, the high-born Maria de Toledo, wife of Diego Columbus, constantly gathered here. They say that the street was paved so that ladies would not get their shoes and long skirts dirty.

At the end of Dame Street is the entrance gate of Carlos III, leading to the Osama Fortress. The stronghold was built between 1502-1507 by order of Nicolas de Ovando to protect the city from pirate attacks. This fortress was the first fortification built in America by Europeans. In its center stands the massive 18-meter tower Torre del Omenaje. You can climb up to admire the magnificent views. At different periods, the fortress was strengthened by the construction of small forts. It also served as a prison, where slaves and pirates, as well as deposed presidents, were kept. In the fortress you can see a statue of Gonzalo Fernandez de Oviedo, a conquistador, historian, chronicler of the era of the conquest of the New World.

On Ladies Street, next to the Osama Fortress, there is a monumental building from the Columbus era - the house of Rodrigo de Bastidas (Casa de Bastidas or Captain's Palace). The Bastidas family, influential in the New World, lived in the mansion. Rodrigo himself, a conquistador distinguished by his favorable attitude towards the Indians, is known for having founded the city of Santa Marta on the coast of Colombia, and one of his sons was the archbishop of San Juan (Puerto Rico). The residence covers an area of ​​3000 m² and includes state rooms, living quarters, utility rooms and an elegant courtyard bordered by openwork arcades. The renovated building now houses the Trampolin Children's Museum, and its other premises regularly host traveling exhibitions.

Another notable building on Ladies Street is the mansion of Hernan Cortes. According to legend, it was here that the legendary conquistador developed a plan to conquer Mexico. This impressive Gothic structure, built in 1507, is called the French House. Back in 1978, the Dominican government transferred the rights to it to France for a period of 50 years. Today the mansion houses the embassy of this country.

The National Pantheon building, built between 1714 and 1745 as a monastery and church for the Jesuits, is also impressive. Then there was a tobacco warehouse, a seminary, a theater, and, finally, in 1955, Trujillo ordered a pantheon of national heroes to be built here. The dictator planned to rest in one of the tombs of the pantheon, but among the famous people buried here today are the remains of his killers. An ambiguous impression is made by the empty tombs, silently awaiting the death of living prominent figures here. The central span of the building, together with the side chapels, has the shape of a cross. Under the dome hangs a huge copper chandelier - a gift from the Spanish Generalissimo Franco. The swastika bars on the second floor were taken from a Nazi prison. You can visit the pantheon for free, but entry here in shorts and miniskirts is prohibited.

The former residence of Nicholas de Ovando, located not far from the pantheon, also looks impressive, adjacent to which is the governor’s personal chapel and his own mini-fort with cannons. Today, rooms with terraces facing the river, magnificent patios with fountains, and antique furniture are the property of the Hodelpa Nicolas de Ovando 4 *+ hotel.

To the north of the pantheon is the Museum of the Royal Houses. During the colonial era, this palace complex, consisting of two buildings, housed the first Supreme Court in the New World, the royal treasury, and the royal audience hall. This museum palace ensemble became in 1973. It received the name “Royal” three years later, when the King of Spain, Juan Carlos I, arrived at its official opening.

The main entrance is decorated with the coats of arms of Charles I of Spain, the island of Hispaniola and the city of Santo Domingo. The museum displays treasures found in Dominican waters and exhibits illustrating the history of the Spanish conquests: engravings, maps, weapons from different eras. Entrance here will cost $2.

Opposite the museum is one of the most unusual monuments of Santo Domingo - the Sundial, also called the Royal. The clock was installed in 1753, and since then, according to the townspeople, it has not been wrong for a minute. Nearby is the Place de Armas, in the center of which stands the statue of Nicolas de Ovando.

On the spacious esplanade, near the banks of the Osama River, stands the Alcazar de Colon Palace, built in 1510-1514 at the behest of Diego Columbus and which served as the family and gubernatorial residence. Fifteen hundred Indians, under the guidance of an architect specially summoned from Spain, built this building from hand-quarried coral reef blocks. The Alcazar housed the viceroy's court for about 60 years. The legendary Spanish conquistadors Cortes, Ponce de Leon and Balboa hatched plans to conquer the American continent within its walls.

The Alcazar, which has a quadrangular shape, is strict, impressive, and combines Gothic and Arabic styles in its appearance. The facade, decorated at the corners with slender, spreading palm trees, impresses with spectacular arches framing each of the two floors. Today, it houses the most visited museum in Santo Domingo, where furniture, weapons, paintings, manuscripts, unique tapestries and other art objects of the 14th-16th centuries are exhibited. Majority museum exhibits- a gift from the Spanish government. Behind the palace lies a luxurious garden overlooking the river. A visit to the museum will cost $2.

Near the Alcazar there is the Sea Gate of Santo Domingo (1540-1555). Previously, only through them did travelers and goods enter the fortified city. Outside the gates rise the remaining buildings of Fort San Diego, which for centuries defended the city from invasions from the sea.

To the north of the Alcazar stretches Atarasana Street with a suite of buildings erected at the beginning of the 16th century. They housed customs services and arsenals. After the reconstruction of this ancient corner of Santo Domingo in 1972, art galleries, bars, restaurants, and small shops were located here.

At the beginning of the street, in the Las Atarasanas Reales building, decorated with arches, columns and galleries, a museum was opened in 1990, where a rich collection of weapons, dishes, jewelry, antique coins, unique crystal vases, marine navigation instruments. All these treasures were found in 1976 in the holds of sunken galleons that wrecked in the territorial waters of the Dominican Republic in the 17th-18th centuries.

On Isabella Catholic Street is the first stone house in Santo Domingo, built in 1503. First, Francisco de Garay, the companion of Christopher Columbus and the richest colonist in America, lived there, then, during the construction of the Alcazar Palace, Diego Columbus and Maria de Toledo lived there, and their two daughters were born here. In 1586, scales were installed within the walls of the House of the Ribbon, on which jewels brought by townspeople were weighed before delivering them as ransom to the extortionists led by Francis Drake. The building got its name from the Franciscan sash engraved on its façade.

On the same street is the house-museum of Juan Pablo Duarte, one of the founders of the Dominican Republic, a fighter for the country's independence. Nearby is the Church of St. Barbara, built in 1537 in wood and later rebuilt in stone. Duarte's parents were parishioners of this church, and he was baptized here. Inside the church you can see two magnificent baroque altars. The church garden offers spectacular views of the colonial city.

On Arzobispo Merino Street, which runs parallel to the Dame, is the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor. Diego Columbus laid the first stone of this building in 1514. In 1546, Pope Paul II declared the church the main cathedral of the metropolis, giving it authority over all the churches of the New World. Until 1992, the remains of Christopher Columbus rested in the marble mausoleum.

Christopher Columbus died on May 20, 1506 in Valladolid and was buried in Seville. In 1540, his ashes were transported to Santo Domingo, where the great navigator wanted to rest in peace, according to his will. It is believed that in 1785, when the Spanish authorities were forced to move to Cuba, they took with them the cathedral an urn with the remains of Columbus and reburied it in the main temple of Havana. Later, the urn was handed over to representatives of the Spanish authorities to return the relics of the national hero to Seville. Today it is located in the Seville Cathedral.

However, in 1877, during restoration work at the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, Padre Francisco Billini discovered another lead urn with the inscription “Don Christopher Columbus, first admiral of the Americas.” She was ceremoniously placed in a mausoleum inside the cathedral, where she remained until her reburial at the Columbus Lighthouse in 1992.

The Dominican and Spanish sides are still arguing over which of them is the honorary owner of the relic. The intrigue comes from historical data that back in 1586, during the siege of the city by Francis Drake, the Archbishop of Santo Domingo ordered that absolutely all inscriptions on the tombs located in the main cathedral be erased in order to avoid desecration of the graves. It is also suspicious that the Dominican authorities flatly refuse to exhume the remains for DNA testing.

The church of Santa Maria la Menor, built from coral, looks very impressive; Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles are intertwined in its external and internal decoration. The facade, decorated with golden coral and decorated with the imperial coat of arms of Charles V, busts of the evangelists and the apostles Peter and Paul, is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The luxurious main altar of the temple is made of mahogany and dates back to 1684.

Near the temple there is Columbus Park, in the center of which a monument to the great navigator was erected in 1887. The discoverer of the New World proudly stands on an impressive pedestal, on which is depicted a touching, graceful figure of the beautiful Anakoana, the ruler of one of the Indian tribes. She seems to personify the hopelessness of the situation of her people, faced with the power and cruelty of the conquistadors. From the park, which was once the center of the colonial city, the pedestrian street of El Conde stretches for almost a kilometer through the Old Town. There are atmospheric restaurants, souvenir and tobacco shops here.

On the street named after Padre Billini, it will be interesting to visit the Museum of the Dominican Family of the 19th Century. It is housed in a typical colonial house, built at the beginning of the 16th century and owned by the Tostado family. The museum displays an impressive collection of wicker and wooden furniture; the interiors of living rooms, dining rooms, and libraries, typical of wealthy Dominicans, have been recreated.

At the intersection of Billini and Isabella Catholic streets there is the Santa Clara Monastery and the church of the same name. The monastery, built in 1522 for Clarice nuns, became the first monastery of the New World. Today there is a monastery school here. The Church of Santa Clara, very ascetic on the outside, unexpectedly amazes with the richness of its interiors. Particularly impressive is the mahogany altar inlaid with gold. Many colonial buildings have been preserved on Hostos Street, one of the most beautiful in Santo Domingo. Its stone-paved roadways and sidewalks have more than once become the stage for filming films, among which the most famous was “The Godfather 3.”

To the southwest, the Colonial City is bordered by the fashionable Gascouet district, with its leafy streets and elegant Victorian houses. Next door, on the site of the former estate of the mother of dictator Trujillo, lies the Plaza de la Culture. Curious tourists should head to this corner of Santo Domingo. The most famous capital museums are located here: the Museum of Nature, dedicated to the Dominican fauna; Museum contemporary art, where the works of the best artists of the country are collected; Museum of History and Geography, Museum of Dominican Man with exhibitions demonstrating the culture of the island's inhabitants from pre-Columbian times to the present day. The square also houses the National Theater and the National Library. The buildings are surrounded by a magnificent shady park, replete with sculptures and fountains.

Malecon

The Malecon, or George Washington Avenue, runs along the rocky coastline along the entire length of Santo Domingo. Everything that reflects the character and appearance of the city is concentrated on this embankment boulevard. Luxurious casinos coexist with shabby shops, fashionable hotels and restaurants coexist with cheap eateries. Under slender, elegant palm trees there are concrete benches, many of which are clearly in need of repair, and piles of garbage have accumulated near the seashore. The local boys are not embarrassed by this, and they desperately dive into the water. Some people cast a spinning rod - the fishermen have built special bridges here.

For walks, tourists usually choose the central part of the Malecon - between the colonial part of the city and Lincoln Avenue. Here, bars, restaurants, and dance floors await them at every turn. After sunset, the fun begins, the open terraces of restaurants are filled to capacity, incendiary musical rhythms are heard from everywhere, and the Malecon turns into a kind of disco with open air. You need to come here in the appropriate mood, forgetting about snobbery. Beyond the busy area, a poorly lit section of the boulevard begins. It is not recommended to rush into its wilds - you can easily be left without a wallet.

The Malecon is a traditional venue for carnivals and other holidays, for which Dominicans usually carefully prepare, abandoning work. In February-March, to the sounds of fiery Creole music and African drums, the country's most grandiose carnival procession takes place in Santo Domingo. In July, the whole city dances at the merengue festival, which smoothly flows into the celebration of Independence Day from Spain (August 16). It's fun on the Malecón and during Holy Week, the wild festivities here are similar to pagan ones. There is also a tradition in Santo Domingo to celebrate the sunrise on January 1st on the coastal boulevard.

Eastern part of Santo Domingo

On the opposite bank of Osama, the atmosphere is less lively, but there are also interesting places for tourists. Most travelers cross the bridge to see the Columbus Lighthouse. The impressive concrete building - 310 m long, 44 m wide and 33 m high - appeared relatively recently, on the 500th anniversary of Columbus's discovery of America. The lighthouse, which looks like a multi-stage pyramid from the side and like a cross from above, rises in the middle of the Mirador del Este park on the hill where Spanish sailors installed the first signal structure in 1496.

The Dominican historian Antonio del Monte Tejada proposed to perpetuate the memory of the great admiral by building a monument in the place where the history of Santo Domingo began back in 1852. However, the actual construction of the monumental lighthouse began almost 100 years later and was completed in 1992. For the festivities, which Pope John Paul II honored with his presence, a marble mausoleum containing the supposed remains of Christopher Columbus was moved here. The building houses a museum exhibition dedicated to the history of the conquest of the American continent and the stages of creation of the monument itself. There are 157 spotlights on its roof, projecting a majestic blood-red cross bordered by a white line onto the night sky. It seems to float above the city, and the light from it can be seen 70 km away. True, powerful floodlights are turned on only on special occasions, since their operation causes problems with power supply in the surrounding areas.

From the lighthouse to the east stretches the Mirador del Este park. Here, for the recreation of citizens and tourists, there are recreation areas, sports and children's playgrounds, alleys decorated with original sculptures are laid among lush tropical vegetation. The territory of Mirador del Este hides many grottoes and caves, the most impressive of which is Los Tres Ojos (or “Three Eyes”), which gave its name to the unique natural park. The cup-shaped cave was created as a result of earthquakes that occurred several centuries ago. Over time, it was filled with the waters of an underground river, thanks to which three lakes were formed - fresh, salty and sulfurous. Today they are connected by stone-lined paths, and observation decks are located near the reservoirs.

The water in each lake has its own color: rich aquamarine, greenish-yellow, transparent yellow. You can take a raft ride on the largest of the lakes, which is located in a huge cave hall decorated with bizarre stalactites and stalagmites.

Not far from the Columbus Lighthouse is the Santo Domingo National Aquarium, where you can get acquainted with the underwater world of tropical latitudes. 90 open and closed aquariums and 7 ponds are home to sharks, moray eels, sea turtles, starfish, and iguanas are kept in a separate enclosure. It is very convenient to watch the ocean inhabitants and photograph them while walking through the transparent tunnel. The territory is equipped with a playground for children, a cafe, and an area with picnic tables. A visit to the aquarium will cost $4.

Entertainment

Lovers of relaxing outdoor recreation can have a great time in one of the many parks in Santo Domingo. During sultry hours, it is worth heading to the National Botanical Garden, located in the western part of the city - the largest in the Caribbean. A great variety of tropical plants are collected on its territory. It’s nice to stroll around the park on foot, but you can also use the services of a train that goes around all the most interesting corners of the garden. Entrance ticket will cost $2, and a comprehensive one, including a trip and a visit to a small museum, will cost $5.

To the north of the botanical garden there is a zoo. In essence, this is a nature reserve, there are no cages, and the territory where dangerous animals live is limited by ditches and nets. Cougars, for example, live in lowlands with stone walls. Felines in the zoo are also represented by tigers, lions, jaguars, giant animals - rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses; birds - cassowaries, flamingos, parrots of various species, bright tropical birds. Shows are regularly held in the bird aviary. Entry to the zoo costs $2. Please note that the area in which it is located is disadvantaged. It’s better to come here by taxi (from the center - $6).

You can have a good time in Mirador del Sur Park, in the southwest of Santo Domingo. This green oasis floats above the city like a mirage. Visitors are greeted by shady alleys, beautiful sculptures, fountains, bars and cafeterias, as well as an artificial lake where you can ride a pedalo.

Worth a visit and underwater park La Caleta is a popular diving site in the vicinity of Santo Domingo. Here, fans of this sport will find long coral reefs and underwater caves inhabited by bizarre tropical fish, stingrays, and turtles. On the seabed, at a depth of 18 to 30 m, there are wrecks of sunken ships and specially sunken vessels that have become shelters for marine inhabitants. There are no underwater currents here, so the area is safe even for novice divers. Excursions to La Caleta from Santo Domingo are organized for an average of $40 per person, including diving equipment.

Exotic lovers can go on a trip along the river on one of the small river ships moored at the port of San Diego. The ships rise several kilometers upstream of the Osama, which makes it possible to see from the river the Columbus Lighthouse, the Colonial City, modern neighborhoods and slums of the Dominicans who came to the capital to seek their fortune. However, this sight does not evoke negative emotions, perhaps due to the lush tropical vegetation that protectively hides the wretchedness of the cans.

After sunset, Santo Domingo reveals to tourists all the diversity of its nightlife, the most crowded of all Caribbean cities. Please note that it is not customary to wear sneakers and T-shirts to local nightlife establishments, and the strict dress code adopted in most of them will not allow you to dress frivolously: you need to look respectable.

The most fashionable nightclubs and bars can be found in hotels located in the Gascouet district and its surrounding areas. Here, lovers of exclusivity can visit elite cigar clubs, for example, the elegant Arturo Fuente Cigar Club, where musicians play jazz and chefs prepare gourmet dishes.

A constant favorite of young people - nightclub Jet Set with its live music and merengue shows from popular dance groups. The country's most famous DJs perform at Abacus Club. In this club, girls are periodically treated to free drinks. Fans of merengue and bachata should head to Bachata Rosa. The Guacara Taina club attracts with its location in an inclined cave, at a depth of 15 m. The dance floor is at the very bottom, and above there are niches where you can retire and relax. Opposite the Alcazar Palace, almost all the bars are worthy of attention.

Strip clubs Golden Legs and Doll House offer frank exotic dances performed by dark-skinned beauties. A casino awaits those who want to try their luck in Santo Domingo. They can be found in five-star hotels, mainly in those located on the Malecon.

Beaches

There are no beaches in Santo Domingo itself, but 30 km from the capital there is resort town Boca Chica. Its magnificent beaches with fine, flour-like sand, washed by the gentle blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, are among the best in the country. Boca Chica lies in a lagoon protected by coral reefs, the depth here is only 1.5 m. The sea here is clear, luxurious palm trees imposingly lean over the water and create natural shade for vacationers.

On the beach you can rent ATVs, banana boats, and kayaks. Those interested can go to motor boat away from the coast, and already within 10 minutes you can find excellent diving spots.

Shopping in Santo Domingo

Fans of traditional shopping in Santo Domingo will find huge shopping and entertainment centers. The most famous of them are Agora Mall, Sambill, BlueMall, Galeria 360, located in the western part of the city, and Megacentro, located on the eastern bank of Osama. The shopping center presents almost all world brands, as well as products from local manufacturers at very affordable prices. In specialized stores - wide selection rum, coffee, cigars.

For original souvenirs, head to the shops located in the Colonial City. The most interesting of them are located on the pedestrian street El Conde. Interesting shopping can be done at the famous Mercado Modelo market, which opened in 1942. Today, a variety of handicraft products are sold here. It is worth noting that in the Dominican Republic crafts are rather poorly developed, with the exception of the production of wickerwork, ceramics and jewelry. Handmade products are mostly of Haitian origin and are imported into the country at ridiculous prices.

The Mercado Modelo counters are replete with jewelry made from black coral, greenish amber and larimar, a semi-precious stone found only in the Dominican Republic and Italy. Cost – from 15 $. Wooden figurines, strange faceless Lime dolls, carnival masks, ambergris, delicious coffee, cocoa, chocolate, cosmetics based on coconut oil, and avocados are sold everywhere. You can buy original ones here musical instruments, primitivist paintings by local and Haitian artists, as well as mecedoras - rocking chairs in which Dominicans relax on the verandas. Separate rows are occupied by “magical” objects: amulets, magic potions, enchanted medallions and jewelry. Under the Mamajuana logo, herbal tinctures are sold, which, according to sellers, cure all diseases. It is not recommended to use this miraculous product as a fun drink; it is better to buy rum. The primacy in this niche is contested by the three most famous brands: Brugal, Barcelo, Bermudes. True, experts say that there are other, no less wonderful brands.

Santo Domingo is the place to buy cigars: the country is one of the leaders in tobacco production, second only to Cuba. You should not buy cigars on the street; it is better to go to a store at the manufacturer's factory, where a tasting is offered before purchase. Check out, for example, Caoba Cigar Factory, near Plaza Columbus, or Le Leyenda del Cigarro on El Conde. Cigar prices vary significantly, ranging from $5 to $100 per piece and above.

Local cuisine

Dominican cuisine is based on Spanish, African and French culinary traditions. Locals prefer simple food, lightly spiced. Main products: rice, red beans, chicken, pork, beef, bananas - they are used not only as dessert, but also fried, served with meat as a side dish. Fish and seafood, despite their abundance and variety, are not particularly revered by Dominicans, unlike tourists, among whom establishments offering seafood are popular.

In Santo Domingo, you should definitely try the national dishes: sancocho (stew of vegetables and meat), sancocho prieto (stew of 7 varieties of different meats), moro (rice with red beans or other vegetables), mangu (yucca puree with onions, which served with meat), pastele en ojas (meat and vegetables baked in banana leaves). Seafood has a common name - “mariscos”. Traditional dishes include cangrejo guisado (crab marinated with herbs, cooked in sauce), pescado con coco (fish in coconut milk sauce).

You can get an inexpensive meal in Santo Domingo at pica-polo eateries, which usually offer chicken and tostones - round fried slices of banana, at freituras - they serve deep-fried meat and fish. You can stop by comedoras, where pre-prepared dishes are displayed in display cases. The menu of colmados eateries includes drinks, sandwiches, and cakes, which you can eat at a table next to very gambling domino players. In such establishments, a snack will cost $3, and a hearty lunch will cost $8 per person. You can spend approximately the same amount by ordering a pizza or a hamburger at one of the fast food chains.

Mid- and high-end restaurants and cafes can be found in the historic city center, on the Malecon and in the Gascouet district. Prices may vary significantly between establishments. As a rule, they range from $15-75 per person (first and second course, drink, dessert). When ordering a dish, check whether the price includes the mandatory 10% tip and 18% VAT, so you don’t have to wonder later why the amount on the check doesn’t match what’s on the menu.

Among the alcoholic drinks in Santo Domingo, the most popular is, of course, rum. It is offered neat or diluted with cola, served with a slice of green lemon and plenty of ice. All rum-based cocktails are simply excellent, but the most famous is the Pina Colada. You won't find local wines here, but Chilean wines are available everywhere.

Where to stay

To Santo Domingo hotel infrastructure perfectly developed. Most hotels are located in the most popular tourist destinations. But even in the most remote areas, hotels offer customers basic comfort.

In hotels belonging to the prestigious chains Sheraton, InterContinental, Marriott, Hilton, daily accommodation will cost from $100 to $370, depending on the season and room class. Those who wish to stay in one of the five-star historical boutique hotels, for example, Casas del XVI 5* (Padre Billini, 252), will have to pay even more. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it occupies three buildings, some of the buildings date back to the 16th century. They are beautifully restored, and in the hotel rooms modern amenities harmoniously coexist with authentic period interiors. By paying $300-570 per room per night, you can easily try on the role of a Spanish nobleman. There are more modest options. So, in the Boutique Hotel Palacio 3*+ (Calle Duarte, 106), which also occupies an ancient building, daily accommodation will cost $85-150.

You can stay in one of the modern three-star hotels in Santo Domingo by paying $60-120; in guest houses prices start from $35 per night. A place in a hostel will cost at least $21.

Transport

Public transport in Santo Domingo is represented by buses, metro, and minibuses. Buses serve long routes and connect the capital with outlying areas. They are usually used by Dominicans to get to their place of work. The fare is inexpensive - $0.5-1. For tourists who do not own Spanish, V Shuttle Buses It's better not to sit down. Their routes are not clearly marked; you have to check with the driver for details.

The Santo Domingo Metropolitan has two lines. The subway is very functional, without a confusing tariff system or complicated transitions. One branch leads from north to south, the other from west to east. City guests usually use the second line connecting popular tourist areas in the west with the eastern bank of the Osama River, which is geographically closer to the airport. The Santo Domingo metro is one of the most budget-friendly in the world, the cost of a one-time ticket is about $0.6. Opening hours: 06:00-23:00.

Those who wish can use the services of guagua - this is an analogue of our minibuses, they run in certain directions, each of which has its own fixed price. Another option is carro publico, a kind of collective taxi. Movement is carried out as follows: a passenger car, following a given course, picks up and drops off passengers along the way. Typically, 4 people can be seated in the back seat and two in the front seat. This allows you to save money and make acquaintances with sociable Dominicans along the way.

Taxis in Santo Domingo are not equipped with meters, but there are fixed tariffs for distances of 5-10 km: about 4-7 $. The cost of longer trips is negotiated with the driver.

Those interested can use the motoconcho service. A dashing moped driver will drop you off at the right place for $1-2 depending on the distance, completely ignoring the traffic rules.

And St. Petersburg are carried out 1-2 times a week, but there are many other, longer options. You can find convenient connections and check flight prices on the website Aviasales.ru. Here you can also find out the schedule of direct charter flights Moscow - Santo Domingo (travel time - 12 hours 35 minutes). These flights are operated by Nordwind Airlines several times a month, depending on the season.

The most convenient way to get from Las Americas Airport to Santo Domingo is by taxi, but it is expensive: from $25 to $40. The trip will take about half an hour. You can also get to the city by minibus. This transport runs every 20-30 minutes from dawn until approximately 19:00 (depending on aircraft arrival schedules). The fare is $1.5-2. The bus terminus is located near Enriquillo Park, close to the colonial quarters.