Overview:

:The Catedral Santiago Apóstol is the main Roman Catholic church in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic and the seat of the Archdiocese of Santiago de los Caballeros. Dedicated to the patron saint of the Dominican Republic, James the Great, it was built in the 19th century and combines Renaissance and Gothic styles of architecture. The building stands prominently in the old town plaza, where several other historic and religious monuments can be found. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

The Cathedral of Santiago Apóstol is the main church in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic. It is a large Neoclassical building, with a French and Italian design influence. The building was constructed in the 18th and 19th centuries, and features various sculptures, columns, and arches. One of the highlights of the building is the large stained-glass window in the center, depicting the ascension of Saint James. The cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the city, and was originally a Franciscan church. The structure has been mostly preserved, and services are still held in the cathedral. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The construction of the Catedral Santiago Apóstol in Santiago de los Caballeros began in the year 1508, with the initiative of Asencio de Villacorta, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in the Caribbean. Villacorta decided to dedicate the structure to St. James, as the city of Santiago de los Caballeros was founded on his feast day. The Catedral Santiago Apóstol was built in a gothic style with Renaissance and neoclassical influences. The facade features both marble and stucco and includes an ornately carved bell tower. Inside, the ceiling is painted in a neoclassical style, while the floors and walls are covered with marble. Though much of the original structure remains intact, it has undergone several restorations and renovations over the years. In almost 500 years, the plaza around the Catedral Santiago Apóstol has remained largely unchanged. Its original arched facade is still there, serving as a reminder of centuries past. The Catedral Santiago Apóstol is a beautiful and historically important landmark in Santiago de los Caballeros. It stands as a symbol of the city’s religious heritage and is a testament to the importance of faith in Dominican culture. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. Santiago Apóstol Cathedral is the first cathedral in the Dominican Republic, built in 1540. 2. The original church that was located in the same area was destroyed by a hurricane in 1533 when a new church was erected in its place. 3. Santiago Apóstol Cathedral has had multiple renovations and additions since it was first built, including the façade which dates to the 18th century. 4. Inside the cathedral you will find some original colonial decorations and furniture, which were placed during the 16th century. 5. The chapel located in the north of the church holds several tombs of important and influential locals, including Francisco del Rosario Sánchez who was considered the Father of the Dominican Republic's Independence. 6. The cathedral is the largest structure in the city and can accommodate up to 3,500 people. 7. The bell tower stands at 42 meters tall, and its twelve bells symbolize the twelve apostles. 8. The shape of the cathedral is an example of Baroque architecture. 9. It is a sacred place for the Roman Catholic faithful people and a center of colonial spirituality in the Dominican Republic. 10. The Virgin of LaAltagracia, Patron Saint of the Dominican Republic, holds a place of honor in the cathedral. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.