Overview:

: Iglesia Las Mercedes is a vibrant Catholic parish in the heart of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. The church is part of the Apostolic Vicariate of Santo Domingo, which was established in 1519 and is one of the oldest Christian communities in the New World.The parish is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Our Lady of Las Mercedes. Its patron saint is La Dolorosa (the “Sorrowful Virgin”). Iglesia Las Mercedes provides a variety of spiritual services to the local community, from Masses and devotional services, to social outreach projects and retreats. It is a beautiful and welcoming place for spiritual renewal and growth for people of all ages and backgrounds. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

• Construction: Iglesia Las Mercedes is an early colonial architecture church with a classic facade. • History: The church was built in 1513 by Friar Antonio de Montesinos and set up by the Dominican Order. • Interior: Inside, the church is decorated with altars and paintings from the 18th century, including a statue of Our Lady of Mercedes on the high altar. • Artwork: The walls and ceilings are decorated with elaborate sculptures, oil paintings, and murals depicting Biblical scenes. • Climate: The church is air-conditioned to provide a comfortable atmosphere for visitors. • Accolades: Iglesia Las Mercedes was named a National Monument by the Dominican Republic in 1953. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Iglesia Las Mercedes is a church located in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The church was founded by Dominican artist, author, and priest, San Pedro Claver, in the early 18th century. He was inspired to build the church after meeting a Spanish philanthropist in Barcelona, who had told him of the similarity between the Catholic symbol of the "Mercedes" and the Dominican Republic's national symbol of faith - the palm tree. The church was initially completed as a beautiful baroque structure, but its original design changed several times over the years. During the early 1800s, it was renovated in the neoclassical style, and eventually in 1915, it was completely renovated as an art deco building. Today, the church is renowned for its unique architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and paintings of both religious and secular scenes. It is also known for its annual traditional events, which are celebrated every year on the Sunday closest to the celebration of National Independence Day (February 27). The church remains one of the most prominent Catholic Churches in the country, and continues to draw national and international pilgrims and visitors, as it has for centuries. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. Iglesia Las Mercedes is the cathedral for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Santo Domingo. 2. It is located on the corner of Isabel La Católica and Gregorio Luperón streets in the Colonial Zone. 3. The present Gothic-style building dates from the late 15th century. 4. Las Mercedes is one of the oldest churches in Santo Domingo and is considered the oldest Gothic structure in the Americas given its original façade. 5. The church is noted for its three carvings of the Mother Mary wearing a crown above the doorways in the façade. 6. It has been commonly known as the most photographed church in Santo Domingo because of its beautiful decorative features. 7. The church is divided into two sections, one being the Gothic Side, where worshippers pray and the other being the Baroque Side, where concerts and events are held. 8. Iglesia Las Mercedes is the traditional site of celebration of Corpus Christi, a festival commemorating the presence of Christ’s body in the Eucharist. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.