Iglesia de las Mercedes (Church of Our Lady of the Mercy), Santo Domingo

Iglesia de las Mercedes (Church of Our Lady of the Mercy), Santo Domingo

The Church of Our Lady of the Mercy stands as an exquisite example of colonial Gothic architecture, carrying deep historical and cultural significance. This magnificent church holds a prominent place in the city's heritage and is a part of the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Colonial City of Santo Domingo," reflecting its profound importance.

Construction of this religious sanctuary began in 1549, under the skilled hands of Rodrigo de Liendo, and it was finally completed in 1616. Originally intended as a seminary, the church later served as a monastery, enhancing its historical and spiritual significance for the local community.

Throughout its existence, the Church of Our Lady of the Mercy has experienced both moments of grandeur and adversity. Unfortunately, it endured severe damage during the invasion of the English corsair Sir Francis Drake in 1586. Despite these challenges, the church has withstood the test of time, symbolizing the resilience of the Dominican people and their devotion to their faith.

The interior of the church impresses with a wide vaulted nave, embellished with side chapels nestled between its graceful buttresses. Visitors are enthralled by the high choir, an octagonal apse, and the Baroque-style high altar, all of which exude artistic grandeur and religious reverence.

A notable feature that distinguishes this church is its remarkable wooden pulpit, supported by a structure in the form of a serpent demon. This unique design adds an air of mystery and fascination to the sacred space, making it a focal point of interest for art enthusiasts and history aficionados alike.

The Church of Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes is not only architecturally splendid but also holds immense spiritual significance for the Dominican Republic. In 1616, the swearing-in of the Patronage of la Virgen de las Mercedes took place within these hallowed walls, an honor that was extended to the entire nation. The dedication to the Virgin of las Mercedes was proclaimed in the same year, further solidifying her role as the patron saint of the Dominican Republic.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Santo Domingo. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Iglesia de las Mercedes (Church of Our Lady of the Mercy) on Map

Sight Name: Iglesia de las Mercedes (Church of Our Lady of the Mercy)
Sight Location: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (See walking tours in Santo Domingo)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Create Your Own Walk in Santo Domingo

Create Your Own Walk in Santo Domingo

Creating your own self-guided walk in Santo Domingo is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Santo Domingo Introduction Walking Tour

Santo Domingo Introduction Walking Tour

The capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, or simply "La Capital" as the locals commonly refer to it, holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas.

Founded in 1496 by Bartholomew Columbus, Christopher Columbus's younger brother, it was originally called "La Nueva Isabela", but was soon renamed Santo...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Colonial Architecture Tour

Colonial Architecture Tour

As the vanguard of European advance to the West, Santo Domingo burgeoned into the first seat of the Spanish colonial administration. The city's colonial architecture is a significant aspect of its identity, featuring a blend of styles that evolved over time, influenced by indigenous, African, Spanish, and other European cultures.

The heart of Santo Domingo's colonial architecture is...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles