Overview:

: Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel, Santo Domingo is a Roman Catholic church located in the heart of the historic city of Santo Domingo. The church was constructed in the 15th century in Gothic style and is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Americas. It is located in the Plaza de España and has a Baroque style bell tower. The main attractions of the church are its stained glass windows and its beautiful gardens. The church is also home to a large collection of old religious art works. Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel is a popular tourist destination and holds religious services for both locals and visitors. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

• Baroque façade: The façade of the church is elaborate and ornate. It is made of glistening white stone, and decorated with carvings and reliefs. It has three main archways, as well as several decorative details. It is typical of the baroque style of architecture, which is often seen in many Dominican buildings, both religious and secular. • Corinthian columns: The church has two large Corinthian columns which stand at the entrance of the church’s courtyard, and are intricately decorated with detailed carvings. The columns are very impressive and provide a grand welcome to all of the visitors of the church. • Clock tower: The clock tower of the church is one of its most well-known features. The four-faced clock is intricately crafted and located atop the highest point of the church’s facade. It is a popular landmark for visitors and locals alike. • Huge dome: The church’s dome is a prominent feature and is one of the largest structures in Santo Domingo. It stands at 100 feet tall and is topped with a large religious sculpture. The large dome is a beautiful sight and can be seen from miles away, providing a stunning backdrop for the city’s skyline. • Decorative bell tower: The decorative bell tower of the church stands tall and is very ornate with its intricate carvings. The bells can be heard from throughout the city and serve as a reminder to all of the faithful who visit the church. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel is located in the historic Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. It was originally constructed in 1523 under the direction of Dominican friar Tomás de Berlanga and is now considered the oldest functioning church in the Americas. It also features the oldest altar in the New World. The church has been rebuilt and modified multiple times over the centuries and now functions as a major tourist attraction as well as the home of many important community events. The church stands out for its beautiful Moorish-style architecture and its large portal-style entrance, featuring the arms of Spanish King Philip IV. Inside, the church features the original Moorish-style altar, multiple side altars, and a large pipe organ. The church also features an art gallery with numerous sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts from the colonial period. Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel has been an important site for religious and spiritual events since its founding. Over the centuries, it has been the place for activities such as retreats, baptisms, weddings, and home to important historical figures such as Christopher Columbus and Bartolomé de las Casas. Today, it is the site of the annual Santo Domingo Festival, a celebration of the city’s history and culture. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. Iglesia San Miguel Arcán gel is one of the oldest standing churches in the Dominican Republic. The original structure dates back to 1575. 2. The church is located in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, an area known for its historical significance and many well-preserved early Spanish structures. 3. The church was greatly damaged by a tornado in 1777. The bell tower of the church still stands today, despite the damage from the tornado. 4. On the altar of Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel is a painting depicting the Archangel Saint Michael and the devil tempting him with a human soul. 5. The church also houses the remains of Ovando de Chávez, a famous colonial era sculptor and architect. 6. Along with other churches located in the Colonial Zone, Iglesia San Miguel Arcán gel was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.