Plaza España (Spanish Square), Santo Domingo

Plaza España (Spanish Square), Santo Domingo

Spanish Square is a historic and lively square situated in front of the impressive Columbus Fortress. The square holds significant cultural and architectural value. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the rich history of the city and offers a charming ambiance for locals and tourists alike.

At the heart of the square stands the statue of Nicolás de Ovando, the founder of Santo Domingo, paying homage to the city's historical origins. This monument serves as a reminder of the city's colonial past and the importance of its foundation.

Adjacent to the statue, on the western bank of the river, stands a remarkable sun clock dating back to 1753. This ancient timekeeping device not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the square but also showcases the ingenuity and engineering prowess of its time.

Upon entering the Spanish Square, visitors are greeted by a scenic view towards the north, where de La Atarazana Street awaits. This street is a picturesque and historically significant pathway leading to the Royal Dockyards, a collection of buildings erected during the 15th and 16th centuries.

The atmosphere surrounding Spanish Square is one of excitement and conviviality. The square is enveloped by an array of bars and restaurants that set up their inviting terraces, especially during twilight. This provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the lively and exuberant "typical Dominican party" culture.

While in Spanish Square, tourists and locals alike are encouraged to take in the grandeur of the Colonial style architecture that surrounds the area. The blend of old-world charm and modern amenities creates a unique and enchanting environment that captures the essence of Santo Domingo's cultural heritage.

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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Plaza España (Spanish Square) on Map

Sight Name: Plaza España (Spanish Square)
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