Santo Domingo is the capital and largest city of the Dominican Republic. It is located on the southeastern coast of the country, at the mouth of the Ozama River. With a population of around 2.9 million people, Santo Domingo is the cultural, financial, and political center 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. Santo Domingo played a crucial role in the Spanish colonization of the Americas and served as the headquarters of Spanish colonial administration for most of the region.
Today, Santo Domingo is a vibrant and bustling city with a mix of colonial architecture and modern development. The Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the historic heart of the city and is home to landmarks such as the Alcázar de Colón (Columbus' Palace) and the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, the oldest cathedral in the Americas.
The city also offers a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Malecón, a promenade along the Caribbean Sea, is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Santo Domingo has a lively nightlife with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants offering local and international cuisine. The city is also known for its vibrant street food scene, with stands and food trucks serving traditional Dominican dishes such as mofongo, sancocho, and empanadas.
Overall, Santo Domingo offers a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for tourists and a thriving city for its residents.