The First European Colony in the Americas

The Dominican Republic is home to the first permanent European colony in the Americas. Santo Domingo, the capital, was founded in 1498 and is considered the oldest continuously inhabited city of European origin in the Americas.

Hispaniola Island

The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, making it the second-largest country in the Caribbean by area. The island is split between the two nations, with the Dominican Republic occupying the eastern two-thirds.

Rich Colonial History

The Dominican Republic has a significant colonial history, with landmarks such as the Alcázar de Colón (Columbus Palace) and the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in Santo Domingo. These historic sites reflect the country’s rich cultural and architectural heritage from the Spanish colonial era.

Baseball Nation

The Dominican Republic is one of the world’s most passionate baseball nations. It has produced numerous major league players, including David Ortiz, Juan Marichal, and Pedro Martínez, and baseball is considered the most popular sport in the country.

Biodiversity and Natural Beauty

The Dominican Republic is known for its stunning beaches, mountains, and rainforests. The country is home to diverse wildlife, including the Hispaniolan Trogon (the national bird) and the Cigua Palmera (an endemic species of bird), as well as the Jaragua National Park and Pico Duarte, the highest mountain in the Caribbean.

The Caribbean’s Tallest Mountain

The highest peak in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte, is located in the Dominican Republic. It stands at 3,098 meters (10,164 feet) and is part of the Cordillera Central mountain range, offering exceptional hiking and trekking opportunities.

Tourism Hub

The Dominican Republic is the most visited country in the Caribbean, known for its luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches such as Punta Cana, and vibrant culture. It attracts millions of tourists each year from around the world.

Merengue and Bachata

The Dominican Republic is the birthplace of merengue and bachata, two of the most popular styles of Latin music and dance. Both are integral to the country’s cultural identity and are celebrated with vibrant festivals and dancing in the streets.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The country boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, a historic district filled with centuries-old buildings and monuments, and Pico Duarte as part of the Parks of the East.

Sugar Production

Historically, the Dominican Republic has been one of the largest producers of sugar in the world. Sugar production was a major part of the country's economy, though the agricultural sector has diversified over time, including coffee and tobacco.