Parque Colón
Ozama
Parque Colón, also known as Columbus Park, is the vibrant heart of the Ciudad Colonial district in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Established originally as Plaza Mayor in 1506, it has served as the main public square and social hub since the early colonial period. The park is renowned for its central statue of Christopher Columbus, sculpted by French artist E. Gilbert, symbolizing the city's historical connection to the explorer. The square is bordered by significant landmarks including the Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, the historic Palacio Borgella, and Santo Domingo's former Parliament Palace. Calle del Conde, a lively pedestrian street known for commerce and culture, begins at Parque Colón and is marked by a bust of Bartholomew Columbus, Christopher's brother and founder of Santo Domingo. The park’s location and surrounding architecture reflect the rich colonial heritage and urban development of the city.
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Tip: The best time to visit Parque Colón is during the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid crowds. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding Colonial Zone on foot to fully appreciate the historical architecture. Tickets are generally not required for the park itself, but nearby attractions may have entry fees. Purchasing combined tickets for museums and historic sites in the Colonial Zone can offer discounts. Guided tours are recommended to gain deeper insight into the area's history and significance.
Interesting facts
- •The statue of Christopher Columbus in the center of Parque Colón was created by French sculptor E. Gilbert.
- •Parque Colón was originally called Plaza Mayor and dates back to 1506, making it one of the oldest public squares in the Americas.
- •Calle del Conde, which starts from Parque Colón, was once the main commercial artery of Santo Domingo.
- •The Palacio Borgella, adjacent to the park, once housed the Dominican Republic's Parliament.
- •The Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor near the park is the oldest cathedral in the Americas.
History
Parque Colón originated as Plaza Mayor de Santo Domingo in 1506 during the early Spanish colonial period, serving as the town’s main square and social center.
It was initially named Plaza Mayor in honor of Nicolás de Ovando, the Major Commander who relocated the city west of the Ozama River in 1502.
The square was also known as Plaza de la Catedral due to its proximity to the Catedral Primada de América.
In 1887, the square was officially renamed Parque Colón following the installation of the Christopher Columbus statue, marking a shift to commemorate the explorer's legacy.
Over the centuries, the square has undergone various modifications but remains a focal point of Santo Domingo's historic district.
Place Guide
Statue of Christopher Columbus1887
This central statue depicts Columbus pointing north and serves as the park's iconic centerpiece, symbolizing the city's historical ties to the explorer. It was sculpted by French artist E. Gilbert and inaugurated in 1887.
Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor1514
Located adjacent to the park, this cathedral is the oldest in the Americas, showcasing early colonial architecture and religious history.
Palacio Borgella
A historic building bordering Parque Colón that formerly hosted the Dominican Republic's Parliament, reflecting the city's political heritage.
Calle del Conde
A pedestrian street beginning at Parque Colón, historically the commercial heart of Santo Domingo, lined with shops, cafes, and cultural sites.
Contact
Phone: (809) 935-2063
