Overview:

: Catedral Metropolitana Santa Ana, Santo Domingo is the main Catholic cathedral in the city of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. It is regarded as the primatial and most important Catholic church in the Dominican Republic, and is the seat of the Archbishop of Santo Domingo. The Cathedral hosts many events, such as the annual hagiography of Saint Anne, patron saint of the Dominican Republic, special events like the solemn procession for the last Easter Vigil, and special Masses and processions during Holy Week, the main Catholic season of the year. It is also a major tourist attraction in the city, and visitors can explore its art and architecture to appreciate Dominican culture and history. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

1. Neo-classical Architecture: Catedral Metropolitana Santa Ana comprises of exhibits of the Neo-classical style of architecture, which was developed in the mid 18th century. 2. Central Tower: The grand central tower of the church stands 70 meters tall and its spire is decorated with golden crosses. 3. Statue of Christ: Added in the late 19th century, a huge statue of Jesus Christ stands atop of the central tower of the cathedral. 4. Historical Architecture: Built in the years 1553-1563, Catedral Metropolitana Santa Ana is a fine example of post-colonial Renaissance style of architecture. 5. Grand Cloisters: The cloisters of the church comprise of richly decorated murals, many of which are dedications to the local saints. 6. Grand Altar: The grand altar inside the cathedral is a fine example of Italian Baroque style of architecture. 7. Gilded Coffers: To add to the richness of the grand cathedral, the walls are lined with numerous gilded coffers. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Catedral Metropolitana Santa Ana, located in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is the oldest cathedral in the Americas. A Gothic-style church, it was built in 1540 after Francisco de Bobadilla, the first Spanish governor of Hispaniola, requested of King Charles V a church for the newly founded city of Santo Domingo. The cornerstone of the church was laid in 1514, but progress was slowed by years of political unrest, and it wasn't until 1540 that the structure was completed. The church was built on the site of an early native settlement, and archaeologists have found evidence of a small chapel beneath the current building. This chapel was believed to have been the first carried out on the island of Hispaniola that was blessed by Catholic rulers. The cathedral was continually expanded over the centuries. In 1740 the façade was reconstructed in a style similar to the one that exists today. Other modifications include the construction of various chapels and the addition of a porch above the entrance. Today, the cathedral serves as the seat of the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo and is a popular tourism destination. It contains a collection of artworks and religious artifacts, and is a national monument as well as an important cultural center. It is also the final resting place of Christopher Columbus, whose remains were re-interred in the cathedral in 2017. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. The original structure of the Catedral Metropolitana Santa Ana was built in 1541 to replace the first cathedral built in the city in 1519. 2. The current structure was built over a period of 50 years from 1541 to 1601, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas. 3. The former presidents of the Dominican Republic are buried in the crypt of the Cathedral. 4. The Cathedral is the site of one of the largest Catholic Processions in the Dominican Republic, known as the Procesión del Señor de las Misericordias, which takes place each year on the Feast day of Christ the King. 5. The Cathedral is home to an ancient oil painting depicting the Adoration of the Three Magi, which is believed to date from the 16th century. 6. The Cathedral is also home to several historical artifacts, including a 16th-century Spanish royal coat of arms, a marble crucifix from 1791, and a painting of the Virgin Mary believed to have been painted in the 19th century. 7. The Cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo, the highest seat of the Catholic Church in the Dominican Republic. 8. The Cathedral is a designated National Monument of the Dominican Republic and stands as a symbol of faith and national pride for Dominicans everywhere. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.