Colonial zone of Santo Domingo

The Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, or “Zona Colonial“, is the historic heart of the capital of the Dominican Republic. It’s the oldest European settlement in the Americas, dating back to the late 15th century, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.

The Colonial Zone was established in 1498 by Bartholomew Columbus, Christopher Columbus’s brother, just a few years after Columbus first landed in the Caribbean. So yeah, it’s old—like, over 500 years old. Back in the day, Santo Domingo was Spain’s starting point for colonizing the New World. The city became a base for explorers, and its Colonial Zone was the first part of the Americas to be developed by Europeans. It’s where you’ll find the first cathedral (Catedral Primada de América), the first hospital, the first university, and even the first street (called Calle de las Damas) in the Americas. So, it’s full of “firsts.”
One of the coolest parts of the Colonial Zone’s history is that it was a hub for explorers and conquerors. Diego Columbus, Christopher’s son, even lived in the Alcázar de Colón, a grand palace right in the heart of the zone. The Fortaleza Ozama, one of the oldest forts in the Americas, was built to protect the city from pirates and invaders.

Over the centuries, the Zona Colonial has gone through ups and downs. It was attacked by pirates, occupied by different powers (Spain, France, and even Haiti at different times), but it always held onto its historical significance. In modern times, the zone has been restored and preserved to keep that.

The vibe at Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo is super chill and lively at the same time—it’s got this cool mix of old-world charm and modern energy. Imagine wandering through cobblestone streets, with centuries-old buildings around you, but at the same time, there’s live music spilling out of bars, people hanging out at cafes, and street vendors selling fresh fruit or local art.

During the day, the pace is more relaxed. You’ll see locals and tourists alike strolling through the streets, checking out historical landmarks, or grabbing a coffee at a sidewalk cafe. There’s a lot of art and culture here too—cute little galleries, street performers, and colorful murals that pop up as you walk around.

At night, the vibe shifts into something more lively. The Zona Colonial really comes alive with people out enjoying the nightlife, whether that’s at a casual bar, a rooftop lounge, or a spot with live music and dancing. It’s a place where you can feel the Dominican spirit—laid-back but full of life.