Sights

Santiago in the Dominican Republic is an old city and has many historical areas to explore and examine. There are many old and time-honored traditions in this area. Many times shops and businesses will close down at noon to open again at 2:00 pm so they can observe their siesta. Remember this when you go shopping or site seeing and take a little siesta yourself. 

The Great Theater of the Cibao

This building is found in the cultural area and has two halls where successful national and international artists perform. It also contains the House of Culture and Eduardo Leon Jimnenes Cultural Center, three rooms of Latin American and Caribbean culture. One room is dedicated to “Signs of Identity” and another is “Genesis and Trajectory” where every two years chosen works from an art contest are exhibited. The third room houses temporary exhibits that change. The building itself is a replica of the National Theatre in Santo Domingo. 

The Monument to the Heroes of Restoration

The Monument to the Heroes of Restoration was built on the east side of Santiago de los Cabelleros on top of a hill. It was built in 1944 and towers 60 meters high. Inside are murals by Vela Zanetti and is the setting for many celebrations and other activities. The spot afford one a grand view of the city. The monument honors heroes of the War of Restoration against Spain in the 1860’s when independence was restored to the Dominican Republic. The monument is near the Parque Duarte and is Victorian style pavilion where horse drawn carriages will give you a tour. 

Catedra de Santiago Apostol

Catedra de Santiago Apostol (Cathedral of St. James the Apostle) is a 19th century cathedral in which tombs of several Dominican heroes are interred. The stain glass window itself is worth seeing as is the carved mahogany alter. The church was blessed and opened in 1895.

The Museum of the Tobacco

The Museum of the Tobacco (Museo del Tobaco) has exhibits from the tobacco industry back to the 16th century. This industry was very important to the Dominican Republic and you can learn how to process tobacco in this museum.

Mercado Modelo

Mercado Modelo is on the Calle del Sol and is the shopping center of the city. There are many handmade items from the region that you can view and purchase. Many cultural and fine arts events occur here as the Cultural Center is nearby. 

Kaskada Park

Kaskada Park is a nearby water park with many pools with themes. There are trampolines and other fun activities for the whole family.

History buffs will have many sites to see and even if you aren’t the views and the unique atmosphere of the area will delight you.