Overview:

: Iglesia de San Antonio or Church of Saint Anthony is located in the north-western part of the city of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. The church dates back over 450 years and was built during the Spanish occupation of the island. The church was originally constructed using material sourced from the nearby Ocoa bay. The church is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The church offers regular services and hosts a variety of events throughout the year such as processions, concerts, and other special events. This beautiful church stands as a symbol of the Dominican Republic's rich Catholic history. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

1. The main interior of the Church is made up of a single nave, with five altars centered around the altar of San Antonio de Padua. 2. The façade of the church, baroque in style, is made up of an archway which flaunts a large alfiz or apron of a golden frame and consists of an extensive sculpture work. 3. Its bell tower is important as one of the oldest in the New World, with 16 bells. 4. The Church features a fascinating array of handcrafted wooden decorations, including large gilded sculptures of San Antonio de Padua and other figures. 5. In addition, its paintings and frescoes are truly captivating and make for a unique tourist attraction. 6. The church is considered an historical monument of Dominican art, comprising the architecture and cultural elements thereof. 7. Its central altar contains a large statue of San Antonio de Padua in baroque style. 8. The Church also has a crypt and other religious artifacts of cultural importance. 9. The entire Church is full of golden and red tones, in which key ornaments attributed to the Baroque style are also illuminated. 10. This church stands out for its spiritual atmosphere and its beauty. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Iglesia de San Antón is an important historical landmark located in the colonial city of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. It is one of the most prominent Medieval Gothic churches in the Americas. The church was built in the late 16th century by the Spanish settlers. Its purpose was to guide the newly-arrived settlers in their religious practices and beliefs. It served as the focus of religious life in the city for over two centuries. The construction of the church was a symbol of the power of the Catholic Church in the new world. The building is decorated with Gothic arches and a stone organ. The architecture is representative of the Spanish colonial period and the style of the era. The church has a long and colorful history. It has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries. In the early 1900s, the City of Santo Domingo refurbished the interior and exterior of the church to maintain its appearance and prestige. During the 20th century, the church experienced several bouts of restoration to maintain its structure. In 1989, it closed its doors due to some structural problem that needed attention. After several years of restorations, the church reopened in 1996 under the name of “Iglesia de San Antón”. Today, Iglesia de San Antón is a major tourist destination in Santo Domingo. Visiting the church, along with other historical sites located in the city, is a must for any visitors. The Iglesia de San Antón is a reminder of the Dominican Republic’s rich history and culture. It is a symbol of faith and the influence of the Catholic Church in the Dominican Republic. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. Iglesia de San Antón is the second oldest church in the city of Santo Domingo. 2. The church was built in 1521. 3. The structure of the church is the oldest preserved example of a Renaissance-style in the city. 4. The church is located in front of the Alcázar de Colón, the former residence of Christopher Columbus's son Diego and his wife María de Toledo. 5. Iglesia de San Antón is home to a replica of Pope John Paul II's pastoral staff. 6. The church narrowly escaped destruction by fire in the early 17th century when local firefighters intervened to put out the flames. 7. The interior of the church is decorated with beautiful azulejos, or blue-and-white glazed tiles. 8. The church’s its original bell tower has been replaced due to disease and age. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.