Mirabal Sisters Obelisco, Santo Domingo

The Mirabal Sisters Obelisco stands as a powerful landmark in Santo Domingo, honouring the legacy of the Dominican Republic’s most emblematic heroines: Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa Mirabal. Known as “Las Mariposas” (“The Butterflies”), the sisters became symbols of courage and resistance against the Trujillo dictatorship, and their assassination on 25 November 1960 marked a turning point in the country’s modern history. The monument, located along the capital’s waterfront boulevard, the Malecón, brings its story into the public space through vivid imagery and historical resonance.

Originally built as a simple obelisk in the mid-20th century, the structure was later transformed into a colourful vertical mural dedicated to the Mirabal sisters. Its painted surfaces depict their portraits and the imagery of butterflies, referencing the code name they used in their underground movement. This artistic intervention turned the site into one of the most recognisable tributes in the city, blending public art with historical memory in a way that feels both accessible and impactful.

Visitors will find the obelisk easy to spot along Avenida George Washington, where it rises prominently against the coastal scenery. Beyond its visual appeal, the monument serves as an invitation to reflect on the sisters’ bravery and on the broader struggle for democracy and human rights in the Dominican Republic. It is also a popular photo stop, especially at sunset when the colours of the mural stand out vividly.

For travellers exploring Santo Domingo, the Mirabal Sisters Obelisco is more than a landmark—it is a reminder of the resilience and determination that helped shape the nation’s path toward freedom.