Explore Santo Domingo, the legendary starting point of the Americas.

"Start here, rediscover the Americas!" Santo Domingo, a city with a rich history and unique charm, is like a shining pearl embedded in the Americas. It is not only the earliest Spanish colony in the Americas, but also a leader in the Latin American economy, with many "firsts" in the Americas: the earliest roads, universities, hospitals, and churches. Its old town is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and exudes a charming historical charm. It is worth mentioning that Santo Domingo also has the most developed subway transportation line in the Caribbean, which provides great convenience for travel. A Tale of Two Cities: Seville and Santo Domingo In the grand picture of the Age of Discovery, Seville and Santo Domingo, one is the starting point of merchant ships, and the other is the end point. The fleet shuttles back and forth on the ocean wealth line connecting them. Columbus and his successors thus began a magnificent legend of wealth, and also left a precious legacy for the two cities, making people think of that bloody and adventurous era. Tracing History: Following in the Footsteps of Columbus On December 5, 1492, Columbus set foot on the present-day northwest end of the Dominican Republic and named the entire island Hispaniola. However, on December 23, his ship ran aground near present-day Cape Haiti, leaving 39 men behind and using the ship's sleepers to build the "Christmas Fort." After that, Columbus continued to sail northeast with the remaining fleet, explored the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, and then returned to Spain. From 1496 to 1498, Columbus' brother Bartolomeo Columbus established the "New Isabella City" on the south side of the island, on the east bank of the Ozama River in present-day Santo Domingo. After Columbus' death, his body was moved from Spain to the Dominican Republic and buried in Santo Domingo. His ashes are said to be stored in the Columbus Cross Lighthouse on the east side of the city (although some say they are buried in Seville Cathedral). In-Depth Experience: Strolling Through the Old Town of Santo Domingo The old town of Santo Domingo is a treasure of the Latin American region. Stepping into the old town is like traveling through time and space, with a strong historical atmosphere. The ancient buildings are scattered, the walls are covered with traces of time, and the bright flowers and trees exude a unique charm in every corner. Although some areas near the old town are similar to slums and have a strong sense of division, the splendor of the core area of the old town is enough to make people ignore these. Here, you can slow down, wander through the narrow streets, explore the mysteries of ancient churches, and feel the unique style of colonial architecture. Travel Tips - Transportation: Santo Domingo has a well-developed subway network, and you can buy a transportation card for convenient travel. If you want to go to nearby attractions, there are also well-developed bus routes to choose from. - Safety: Although it is relatively safe to visit the core area of the old town, you should pay special attention to the safety of your belongings in the surrounding areas, especially in places similar to slums, and avoid traveling alone. Santo Domingo, a city that blends history and modernity, is waiting for you to explore. Come here and uncover the mysterious historical veil of the Americas and start a unique journey!