Palacio Consistorial (Town Hall), Santo Domingo

Palacio Consistorial (Town Hall), Santo Domingo

The Town Hall stands as a living testament to the nation's rich history and political significance. As the original location of the old town hall, it holds the esteemed title of being the oldest Town Hall in the Americas. This historical building has been a witness to unparalleled events in the Dominican Republic's past and has played a central role in shaping the country's destiny through numerous important decisions.

Construction of the Town Hall took place between 1502 and 1504, and over the centuries, it has undergone several remodeling efforts. Some of the original facade has been hidden and covered over during this time, adding layers of history and intrigue to the edifice. The Town Hall has withstood the test of time, serving as a symbol of continuity and resilience in the face of changing eras.

During the early 20th century, the architect Osvaldo Báez Machado undertook a significant remodel of the palace between 1911 and 1913. Báez Machado was also responsible for the remodeling of the Iglesia de la Altagracia and The Hospital Padre Billini, demonstrating his prominent role in the architectural history of Santo Domingo. The remodel embraced the neoclassical style, which was prevalent during that period.

The ground level of the Town Hall features a grand porch that runs along the entire building, welcoming visitors with an air of majesty and historic significance. On the second floor, a large curved corner balcony adds a touch of elegance to the structure, accompanied by small balconies adorned with delicate iron railings.

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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Palacio Consistorial (Town Hall) on Map

Sight Name: Palacio Consistorial (Town Hall)
Sight Location: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (See walking tours in Santo Domingo)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
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.
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
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