Overview:

Iglesia San Pedro Apóstol, Higüey in Dominican Republic is a Catholic Church located in the city of Higüey, in the La Altagracia Province. The Church was built in 1843, making it the oldest church in the Dominican Republic. It has three Baroque altars and a cross that was brought from Spain. Every year, the Church holds a procession for the feast day of St. Peter the Apostle on June 29th. The Church is an important site for pilgrimage for Dominican-Americans and a symbol of the Catholic faith in the Dominican Republic. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

1. Gothic Architecture: Iglesia San Pedro Apóstol features Gothic-style architecture, featuring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and towers. 2. Murals: The church is home to impressive paintings and frescoes, including the murals by renowned Spanish artist Francisco Antonio Bayeu in the mid-1700s. 3. Barrel Vault Ceiling: The interior of the church features a large, decorative barrel vault ceiling that spans across the sanctuary. 4. High Altar: Located at the head of the sanctuary, the church's high altar features a marble Communion table and two bronze candelabras. 5. Stained Glass Windows: The church features many stained glass windows, which depict religious scenes and figures. 6. Carillon: The church boasts a large carillon set atop its bell tower, which features 24 bells and is played every Sunday. 7. Courtyard: Located to the side of the church is a peaceful courtyard that features lush greenery and a marble fountain. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Iglesia San Pedro Apostol is a catholic church located in the city of Higüey, which is in the province of La Altagracia in the Dominican Republic. The church has a rich and long history. It was originally built in the 17th century and has since been rebuilt several times. The first version of the church was built in 1656, and it was made of adobe with a thatched roof. This first structure was destroyed by a hurricane in 1664. The second church was built in its place in 1665, built in wood with a tile roof. The second church was destroyed by a hurricane in 1742. The third version of the church was built in 1745 and was made of brick. The second version of the church was also destroyed by a hurricane in 1798. The fourth version of the church was built in 1810. It was built in a neoclassical style and had an interior column of over 74 feet and an exterior wall of 28 feet tall. This version of the church also suffered damage due to hurricanes in 1836 and 1845. In 1915, the church was rebuilt in a Spanish mission style, which remains intact today. The church underwent major renovations in 1999 to repair and maintain its historic features. Today, the Iglesia San Pedro Apostol is a popular tourist attraction. The church has an ornate and beautiful interior, and is often used for religious ceremonies and gatherings. The church is also known for its religious artworks, which include several paintings and sculptures from the original versions of the church. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and is a great example of Dominican culture and history. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. Iglesia San Pedro Apóstol is the first cathedral in the Dominican Republic. 2. The original construction of the cathedral was completed in 1736. 3. The cathedral was built in a late baroque style using a combination of local and imported materials. 4. It is located in the city of Higüey, which is a major pilgrimage site for Catholics during the week of Easter. 5. The cathedral has an angelic chime of bells which are rung for special occasions such as religious holidays. 6. The interior of the cathedral features many unique colonial-era antiques and artworks which were from the original construction. 7. The most impressive artworks in the cathedral are the paintings of the Immaculate Conception on the main altar and the Assumption of Our Lady by sculptor and architect Pedro Antonio de Jacinet. 8. In August of 2005, Pope Benedict XVI visited the cathedral and celebrated a Mass for the people of Higüey. 9. The cathedral is visited by many Dominicans and tourists each year and is a popular tourist attraction in the city. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.