Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entire Colonial Zone or Zona Colonial is a wonderland of historic architecture. This area of Santo Domingo is filled with sixteenth century palaces, Spanish Colonial houses and breathtaking ruins. Many of the buildings have picturesque interior courtyards that are hidden behind unassuming single story whitewashed facades. In addition to the stunning colonial residences, many of which are owned by celebrities, the area also offers a wide variety of restaurants and lively bars and nightclubs.
However, the reality is that these Colonial Zone marvels are merely a backdrop to a unique culture. Not only is the culture different from that of Europe, Canada and the United States, it is also from the surrounding city of Santo Domingo city itself. Boisterous, vIbrant, colorful and loud are descriptions that readily come to mind. The area is filled with cafes, restaurants, nightclubs and art galleries, as well as fascinating museums and monuments. The recently begun improvements to the streets and sidewalks in the Tourist area show the government’s commitment to making the Colonial Zone a premier Caribbean destination. And it deserves to be one because of its charm, beauty and incredible history!
