Santo Domingo is much more than heavenly beaches and exotic drinks. It is a whole setting full of historic buildings, museums and cultural centers. This range of attractions allows you to enjoy a great tourist experience.

Amongst this world of possibilities, we cannot fail to mention the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, the construction of which began in 1512 and was completed in 1546. Consecrated a cathedral by Pope Paul III at the request of Emperor Carlos I of Spain and V of Germany. The cathedral is currently the most important site and the focal point of the capital.

The Santa María la Menor cathedral is known as the Catedral Primada de América (oldest cathedral in the Americas), although its official name is: Basílica Catedral Metropolitana Santa María de la Encarnación Primada de América.

As time has passed, the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor has been made famous due to Christopher Columbus, discoverer of the Americas, who was buried inside it. The enormous complex is characterized by its innovative mixture of architectural styles, with an amazing legacy which lies in the Renaissance era and culminates in Gothic styles.

The history behind the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor includes a pope who requested the construction of the church in honor of the Virgin Mary. It was Pope Julius II who was responsible for overseeing the project under the orders of Bishop Fray García Padilla until 1521. It is the oldest cathedral in the Americas.

Tourists can explore the cathedral's facilities, where they can see and experience a number of different ambiances, works of art, jewels, furniture and other relics, in particular a 1523 painting dedicated to Our Lady of Altagracia. Prominent features of the building are the thickness of its limestone walls and its three doors, two of which were designed in a Gothic style, while the third, the main entrance of the cathedral, is of a plateresque style.

To get to know it better and enjoy its architectural beauty, make the most of your stay at Iberostate to dedicate a day to this highly-recommended excursion.