Tracing History in Santo Domingo
September 21, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic is a must-visit for history buffs who are interested in the beginnings of the New World or the Americas as it is now call it.
It is the oldest colonial city on the continent and you can be sure to capture a glimpse of the first street, the first church and the first colonial village in this part of the world. Aside from its historical significance, charming colonial architecture and ruins, it is also known as a party destination especially during the celebration of the famed Dominican Carnival. You add to that the plentiful palm-fringed and white sand beaches and you can’t help but agree that it makes for a perfect getaway.
The main tourist draw to Santo Domingo is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zona Colonial where colonial architecture reigns. Lazy strolls are called for in the colonial zone, which allows for easy enjoyment of its cobblestone alleyways and centuries-old buildings. Check out Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor which was completed in 1540 making it the oldest cathedral in America. Its coral limestone facade may not look that impressive but take a look at its well-preserved interiors and its beautiful high vaulted ceilings to better appreciate this more than 600 year old place of worship.
Calle El Conde is also an attraction in itself, not only for being the oldest in the continent, but also for shopping boutiques, cafes and restaurants that line this famed thoroughfare. Also worth visiting are: the forts of San Jose and de la Caridad, the ruins of Puerta de la Misericordia and the 15th century Alcazar de Colon.
Just outside the colonial zone is Malecon. It is a thriving commercial center that is a favorite among tourists not only for shopping and dining but also for beach combing and partying. If you want to experience the best party atmosphere, join the Carnival and Merengue Festivals and you wll find the entire quarter turn into one big discotheque pulsating in the rhythm and excitement of music and revelry.
If you wish to check the museums of Santo Domingo, proceed to Plaza de la Cultura in the district of Gazcue. This is where you can find several museums such as Arte Moderno, Historia Natural, Historia y Geografia and Hombre Dominicano. Culture vultures can also enjoy the performances at the National Theatre. You may also want to drop by Palacio de Bellas Artes to catch a performance of the National Symphony Orchestra. If you are a lover of the art, visit the pedestrian street of Boulevard 27 de Febrero and check out the local art scene in the many galleries found in the area.
Picnics, lazy strolls and nature tours are perfect in Santo Domingo Botanical Gardens. It spans a staggering area of 2 million square meters making the word garden quite a misnomer. Don’t miss the Japanese Garden, its one of the best attractions in the vicinity and a definite must-see.
Other attractions worth checking out in Santo Domingo are: Faro a Colon or the Columbus Lighthouse, the magnificent cavern of Los Tres Ojos and its lagoons, and the National Aquarium and its giant manatee. I am sure you will agree Santa Domingo will be on your list on re-visits!
One of my favorite cities in the world… Love the culture and history there!