Alc\u00e1zar de Col\u00f3n<\/h3>\n

\nThe Alc\u00e1zar de Col\u00f3n is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Santo Domingo. The building dates from 1510 and is the oldest vice-regal residence in the Americas. It was originally the home of Diego Columbus, the governor of the colony and Christopher Columbus\u2019 son. The palace was the center of the Spanish Court for nearly 60 years. It served as the headquarters for the Spanish conquests of Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Guatemala, Peru, Florida, Colombia and Jamaica.<\/p>\n

The beautifully restored building is an exceptional example of Spanish Colonial architecture. Now a museum, it displays a fascinating collection of European Late Medieval and Renaissance art. Highlights include polychrome wood sculptures and tapestries. Although many of the furniture items are reproductions, they give visitors an idea of what life was like in Colonial Santo Domingo.<\/p>\n

Plaza de Espa\u00f1a
\nTelephone: 809-682-4750
\nHours: Tuesday to Sunday 9 am \u2013 5 pm<\/p>\n

Catedral Primada de Am\u00e9rica (Cathedral)<\/h3>\n

\nAnother important Santo Domingo tourist attraction is the cathedral. The building is interesting both for its historical importance as the first cathedral in the New World and its architectural beauty. Construction began in 1514 and was completed in 1540. It combines a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic and Plateresque. Be sure to see the beautiful sculpted portals on the eastern (main) facade of the cathedral (around the corner from Parque Col\u00f3n).<\/p>\n

The interior of the cathedral features a nave and two side aisles, spectacular ribbed vaults and 12 side chapels. The cathedral also holds interesting period artwork, including altarpieces, paintings and sculptures.<\/p>\n

Calle Arzobispo Meri\u00f1o, Parque Col\u00f3n
\nHours: 9 am – 4 pm daily<\/p>\n

Plaza de Espa\u00f1a<\/h3>\n

\nPlaza de Espa\u00f1a is a wide square that has beautiful views of the Alc\u00e1zar and the Ozama River. It features a variety of restaurants with large outdoor terraces, as well as interior dining areas. These establishments are open for lunch and dinner.<\/p>\n

Plaza de Espa\u00f1a is the perfect spot for an evening stroll, especially on Fridays and Saturdays when the Ministry of Tourism hosts traditional music and dance performances. The square also occasionally hosts other interesting events like antique car shows.<\/p>\n

Between Calle Las Damas and Calle La Atarazana<\/p>\n