Santo Domingo, officially known as Santo Domingo de Guzmán, is the capital and largest city of the Dominican Republic. Here are some key points about this historic city:
History
- Foundation: Santo Domingo was founded by Bartholomew Columbus on August 5, 1498, making it the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas.
- Colonial Era: It served as the base for Spanish colonial expansion into the New World. The city was initially called La Isabela but was moved to its current location due to its strategic harbor.
- World Heritage Site: The Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990 because of its historical significance and well-preserved colonial architecture.
Geography
- Location: Situated on the south coast of the island of Hispaniola, at the mouth of the Ozama River.
- Climate: The city experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Culture and Attractions
- Culture: Santo Domingo is known for its vibrant culture, which includes music like Merengue and Bachata, and a rich culinary tradition.
- Historic Sites:
Economy
- Santo Domingo is the economic center of the Dominican Republic, hosting numerous businesses, financial institutions, and international corporations.
- The city has seen significant urban development in recent years, with modern skyscrapers and infrastructure projects.
Transportation
- The city is serviced by Las Américas International Airport, one of the busiest in the Caribbean.
- Public transportation includes buses, taxis, and the newly constructed metro system.
Sources
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