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Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, Santo Domingo

4.7
#1 of 61 in Historic Sites in Dominican Republic
Must see · Church · Tourist Spot
Gaze upon the beautiful golden coral-limestone facade, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, the first cathedral to be built in the Americas. Take an audio guide on entry, available at a small extra charge, and admire the magnificent architecture of the 500-year-old structure, with its cross-vaulted ceilings and impressive scale. Be aware that the cathedral still functions as a place of worship, so any clothing deemed too revealing is forbidden. You should consider wearing long shorts and shirts before you visit, although you can cover up with wraps available at the entrance. By using our Santo Domingo trip builder website, you can arrange your visit to Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor and other attractions in Santo Domingo.
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Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
3,179 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • By rolsz
    The cathedral is located in the tourist area of Santo Domingo and makes for a very easy trip. The cost to get into the Cathedral was only a few dollars and made for a great experience. It is very.....  more »
  • By LuizDutraNeto
    This is the very first cathedral church of the "New World"! And even after more than 500 years, or maybe exactly because of its over 500 years, the "Catedral Primada de las Americas" is still the...  more »
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Google
  • By Sarah Ismail
    This place is probably the most worth visiting in Santo Domingo. You will not be disappointed. You should note that if your shoulders and knees are being shown, you will be given a scarf so they remain covered up.
  • By Emma Jorge
    The cathedral of Santo Domingo is the oldest in America built in 1504. The architecture of the building of the Cathedral of Santo Domingo is characterized by Gothic style with ribbed vaults, solid walls and three doors, two of them gothic in contrast to the third and main Plateresque Gothic style. It is located between the streets Archbishop Meriño and Isabela La Católica, next to the Colón Park; leaving its main door to the west, facing the Archbishop Meriño street, almost corner Archbishop Nouel. If you visit the city for the first time or if you live there, it is an essential stop.
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