![]() ![]() 5) Small cafés and individual restaurants all over.4) Join a free walking tour in Santo Domingo.3) Plenty of alternative guided tours for more entertainment.2) Famous sights and historical buildings in the Colonial Zone.1) The Zona Colonial is like an open-air museum.13 Reasons to visit the Zona Colonial – things-to-do in the colonial district.Remember, there are very good reasons for the Colonial Zone’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is shady and has several benches, so take a break here and enjoy the unforgettable views. There is also a very charming square called Plaza Toledo that fronts on Calle Las Damas. Today, many of the Colonial Zone’s principal buildings are located on Calle Las Damas: Fortaleza Ozama, the National Library and the National Pantheon, as well as several exclusive homes and hotels. The name “Las Damas” or “The Ladies” originates from the 16th century custom of wealthy woman in Santo Domingo taking evening strolls down the street. ![]() On a more historic note, you must also visit the very first paved street in the Americas – Calle Las Damas. You will never forget your first voyage down El Conde! At the far end, just across from Parque Independencia, you will find the famous Cafe Grands, where you can relax with a tasty and healthy natural papaya or passion fruit juice, or perhaps try some authentic Dominican food. But that’s ok because walking along El Conde away from Parque Duarte you will experience a more genuine Dominican culture. There are, of course, many souvenir shops, “art” sellers and cafes where tourists can relax, but the shops are typically lower to middle-end and not international quality. El Conde is lined with shops, cafes and businesses.įor the most part, these are places that the locals visit. Perhaps the most unique, modern feature of the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo is the pedestrian street “El Conde” that runs from Parque Duarte at one end all the way to Parque Independencia. Situated at the south end of Parque Colon, the main entrance is actually on Calle Arzobispo Meriño. There are some beautiful Baroque paintings and sculpture inside and it is always nice and cool, so stay for awhile and look around. It features a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic. This is the first cathedral constructed in the New World. No matter where you sit, though, you will always have a spectacular view of the cathedral. Business people, tourists, expats, artists and locals share the benches and cafes in this charming park. This area is always active, with thousands of people passing by each day. The true heart of the Colonial Zone lies at the picturesque Parque Colon and the Cathedral. This type of structure was, and still is, ideal for warmer climates as the courtyard was always nice and cool. Here, you will get a feel for traditional Spanish Colonial architecture, which often centers around an open, sunny courtyard with trees and a garden. Perhaps even more impressive is the courtyard. From Taino Indian artifacts to Spanish Colonial art and furniture. The Museo de las Casas Reales or “Royal Houses” is home to a collection that documents Santo Domingo’s history. Another idea – come back on a weekend evening and enjoy live Dominican music while sitting at one of the restaurant’s outdoor terraces. If you are lucky, some cultural event might be underway. When arriving and leaving the Alcazar de Colon, it is impossible to miss the famed Plaza de España and its numerous restaurants and cafes. ![]() Built in the 16th century, it was initially the home of Diego Colon, the son of Christopher Columbus. Our first stop, the Alcazar de Colon, is located at the east end of the enormous Plaza de España, overlooking the Ozama River. Let’s take a look at our Top 5 attractions in the Colonial Zone, and don’t forget to just relax and people watch along the way!ġ. But the Colonial Zone is also a vibrant and bustling neighborhood with a unique culture that is fun to explore. Many of the 16th century palaces today house museums, stunning restaurants, private homes and government offices. The Colonial Zone, or “Zona Colonial”, is a treasure trove of Spanish Colonial architecture. Recently though, the UNESCO Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo has also been drawing lots of visitors who are eager to explore this historic and charming Colonial city. The beaches of Punta Cana, Bavaro and Cabarete receive millions of visitors every year. The Dominican Republic has always been one of the top destinations in the Caribbean. ![]()
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