Overview:

: The Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari is a church located in the Colonial City district of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. It is the only Gothic church in the New World still in use and is one of the oldest churches in the Americas. The structure was first built in 1514 by the Spanish Crown, and it has undergone several renovations over the centuries. The church is listed under the National Institute of Monuments as a national historical building, and is used as a place of worship and meditation for members of the Catholic community. It is open from 8 AM to 8 PM daily. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

• This Catholic church is the oldest in Santo Domingo. • The church was built in 1514, making it the oldest church in the Americas. • The church was dedicated to Saint Nicholas, who is the patron saint of the city. • The architecture of this church was inspired by England's Gothic style of architecture. • The entrance to the church is decorated with three large gold plated door knockers. • Inside the church, one can find ancient artwork, grandiose columns, long stained glass windows, and grand archways. • The church also contains an altar and a pulpit made of marble. • The church has a large courtyard with many statues of saints, and a plaque dedicated to Pedro Henriquez Ureña, an important Dominican man. • There is also a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and a separate bell tower. • The Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari remains one of the most important religious sites in Santo Domingo, and is a must-see for those visiting the city. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic was founded in 1514. The church is the oldest one in America to use the name of Saint Nicholas, patron of ships and sailors. It was established as part of the plan to fortify the city against pirate attacks. The church is one of the most important historical sites of the country´s colonial era. Its architecture is neoclassical and its construction represents a milestone in Dominican architecture, gaining a prominent place in Santo Domingo's urban landscape. It was declared a national chapel by Presidential Decree 150-97 on September 24, 1997. The Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari has been a religious hub of the city for many years. The baroque altar, which dates back to the 18th-19th centuries, was originally built in Havana, Cuba, and brought to the church in the 1930s. The altar is considered to be a masterpiece of Dominican craftsmanship and stands out among other colonial-era churches in Santo Domingo. The church has also been the site of many important social and religious events. For instance, in 1941, the Dominican-born writer Pedro Mir wrote the Evocaciones in front of the church and read them before an audience of people gathered there. These poems celebrated the people of Santo Domingo and were a way to honor their city and its rich culture. In recent years, the Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari has emerged as a popular tourist destination. Visitors are attracted by its neoclassical architecture, its rich history, and its charming atmosphere. The church holds religious services every Sunday and is open everyday for visitors to come and explore its many features. Today, the Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari is an important historical site and a symbol of Dominican culture. Despite its age, it continues to be an important part of Santo Domingo and its vibrant culture. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari is considered to be one of the oldest churches in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. 2. It was initially built as a chapel for the Spanish soldiers and was later expanded into a larger church in the 19th century. 3. The church has a striking, Baroque style exterior which features two bell towers topped by elegant domes. 4. The interior is richly decorated with colored tiles, stained glass windows, sculptures and a replica of the Fuente de Tres Caínes (Fountain of the Three Dogs). 5. The Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari is the official Roman Catholic parish church in Santo Domingo and is a much-loved local landmark. 6. Thousands of visitors come to the church each year to attend mass and religious festivals, as well as to admire its stately architecture and stunning interior decorations. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.