Santo Domingo is the capital and largest city of the Dominican Republic. Located on the southeastern coast of the country, it is situated on the Caribbean Sea at the mouth of the Ozama River. Santo Domingo is the economic, political, and cultural hub of the Dominican Republic.
The city was founded in 1496 by Bartholomew Columbus, the brother of Christopher Columbus, making it the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas. It served as the colonial capital of the Spanish colony of Santo Domingo, and today, its historic center, known as the Zona Colonial, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Santo Domingo is a vibrant city with a mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial architecture. It is home to a diverse population and offers a rich cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, theaters, and music festivals. The city also boasts a lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Some popular attractions in Santo Domingo include the Alcázar de Colón, a 16th-century palace and museum; the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, the oldest cathedral in the Americas; and the Museo de las Casas Reales, which showcases the history and artifacts of the colonial era.
Santo Domingo is also a major economic center in the Caribbean region, with a thriving tourism industry, as well as sectors such as finance, telecommunications, and manufacturing. The city is served by Las Américas International Airport, which connects it to various international destinations.
Overall, Santo Domingo is a bustling and vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities.