Plaza de la Cultura

Santo Domingo’s cultural hub, this leafy plaza has a concentrated cluster of museums, as well as the national theater and national library.

Plaza de la Cultura is a pleasant open plaza replete with fountains, lush greenery and sculptures. It’s home to some of the most important museums in the Dominican Republic. A focal point of the city, the square is a popular destination for visitors hoping to find out more about the story of Santo Domingo. Marvel at a massive whale skeleton at the Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, attend a show at the Teatro Nacional or just people-watch out on the square.

This swath of land was once owned by the Dominican Republic’s tyrannical dictator Trujillo, but after his assassination, it was put back in the public’s hands. Now, it’s a pretty and relatively peaceful complex that’s devoted to cultural and historical institutions.

Get familiar with the Dominican art scene at the Museo de Arte Moderno, which is located near the Teatro Nacional. This worthwhile museum showcases the work of homegrown modern artists, such as Luís Desangles.

East of here lies the Museo del Hombre Dominicano, which is dedicated to the history of the Dominican Republic. Look for Taíno tools and objects, as well displays concentrating on Carnival celebrations and African influence on Dominican life. The plaza is also the setting for the Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, where two huge whale skeletons, a humpback and a sei, dominate the space.

Stop by the Museo de Historia y Geografía to browse interesting exhibits relating to the ruthless ex-ruler Trujillo. Many of his personal items and a bullet-scarred car from his assassination can be seen here.

The square is also home to two premier cultural institutions: the Biblioteca Nacional and the Teatro Nacional. If you can speak Spanish, book in to see a play or music performance at the Teatro Nacional. The impressive main performance hall can hold 1,800 people. Stay until evening to watch as people arrive at the square for a performance then check out nearby bars and restaurants.

Plaza de la Cultura is a public space and so is free to enter. However, admission fees are required for all the museums. The museums are closed on Mondays. To get here, ride the metro to Estación Casandra Damirón