Facing Plaza de España in the Colonial City, the Alcázar de Colón was built in the early sixteenth century as the residence of Diego Colón, son of Christopher Columbus and governor of the island, and his wife María de Toledo. It is considered the oldest viceregal residence in the Americas.
The building
The palace is built in coral stone and combines late Gothic and Renaissance elements, with open arcaded loggias on both floors that look over the plaza and the river. After centuries of decline it was carefully restored in the twentieth century and now operates as a museum.
Inside the museum
The rooms display period furniture, tapestries, paintings and household objects that recreate daily life in a noble colonial home. The upper loggia offers one of the best views over the Ozama River and the old port.
Planning your visit
Allow about an hour for the Alcázar and combine it with the Museo de las Casas Reales, a few steps away, and a walk along Calle Las Damas. Opening hours can change, so ask our concierge before you go.
Photo credits
- CCSD Parque Colon RD 02 2017 1903 by Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
- Santo Domingo - Alcazar de Colon 01 by Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
- Santo Domingo - Alcazar de Colon 02 by Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
- Santo Domingo Este - Los Tres Ojos 0946 by Phyrexian, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
