The Dominican Republic is rich in culture with much to offer. The capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, was named The American Capital of Culture in 2010 and is one of the 13 U.N.E.S.C.O. (Unified Nantions Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) World Heritage sites in the Caribbean. The island is filled with Museums and Historic sites revealing its rich history. Santo Domingo de Guzman, commonly referred to as Santo Domingo, was the first city of the Americas. Santo Domingo is where the first University of the Americas was established during the Spanish Colonization period. Another name for Dominican Republic is the Island of Hispanola, which is said to have been discovered by Christopher Columbus on October 12, 1492. Dominican Republic attractions include colonial historic sites and museums that have captured: Culture of the Native Taino people, French and Spanish occupation on the Island of Hispanola, African enslavement, Hispanola as a Spanish Colony, the Era of Trujillo and much more. Please visit the Sports and Leisure page of this website for more information regarding Cultural Heritage Tourism.
Freedom in choice of worship is present in the Dominican Republic. The country predominantly consists of Christian and mostly Catholic worshipers although there is a growing presence of Protestant denominations in the country.
Dominican cuisine has the characteristics of “Creole” the kitchen with African and European origin developed in Latin America, similar to other Latin American countries, with slight variations having developed in each region. Coconut is used in many of the dishes. Sweet Plantains (yellow plantains) and Green Plantains are used in a variety of dishes usually accompanied by rice, beans and a type of meat and salad. Needless to say, the Dominican kitchen is an adventure of delicious tastes and spices, although Dominican food is not spicy.
Among the popular festivals known in the country is the Carnaval or carnival, held in many communities. The Carnaval consists of people parading in colorful and often very expensive costumes. This tradition is mostly related to African customs in Europe. Then there are the fiestas held in each community to honor its patron saint called Las Patronales.
Merengue is the national music of the Dominican Republic. The Dominican people pride themselves in their music, food and happy and enthusiastic culture. The beauty and history of the Dominican Republic is unparalleled. Recently the Secretary of Tourism for the island developed a series of videos. The video below is by far one of our favorites featuring classical merengue composed by Jose Antonio Molina and accompanied by breathtaking views of the pristine areas of the Dominican Republic.
Dominicans are well-established in areas of sports, literature, and the arts. Many well-known Dominicans in America are baseball players such as David Ortiz, Manny Ramirez among many, many more. Award-winning authors such as Julia Alvarez and Junot Diaz, have made their mark in the world of literature. Grammy award-winning music composer and artist Juan Luis Guerra and classical music composer Jose Antonio Molina are examples of internationally recognized music icons. Dominican Fashion Designer Oscar de La Renta made his home in the Dominican Republic (Punta Cana) and has contributed to under-privileged communities. Fine Artists such as Sterling Mulbry have also made their mark in the world of fine arts. Her work has been displayed and is recognized in art galleries internationally, including Nantucket, MA.
Pristine Properties of the Dominican Republic invites you to take part in the country that has served as an inspiration for many. Enjoy browsing the information we offer regarding the rich culture of the Dominican Republic and its Pristine Properties.