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Alcázar de Colón
Historical SiteSanto Domingo

Alcázar de Colón

The New World's first royal palace, built by Columbus's son

HoursDisputed
EntranceNot published. Status disputed, confirm before travelling.
Best timeMorning for softer light and fewer crowds
Type
Historical Site
Location
Plaza de España, Colonial Zone
Entrance fee
Not published. Status disputed, confirm before travelling.
Hours
Disputed
Duration
1-2 hours
Best time
Morning for softer light and fewer crowds
Difficulty
Easy
Established
1510
The overview

Overview

The Alcázar de Colón stands majestically at the end of Calle Las Damas in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, overlooking the Ozama River. Built between 1510 and 1514 for Diego Columbus — Christopher Columbus's eldest son and the first Viceroy of the Indies — it is the oldest viceregal residence in the Americas.

This stunning coral limestone palace was constructed without a single nail, using only locally quarried coral rock. After centuries of use, abandonment, and restoration, it now serves as a museum housing an impressive collection of 16th-century European art, period furniture, and artifacts that tell the story of the early colonial era.

In pictures

Photo gallery

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

What is the Alcázar de Colón?

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The Alcázar de Colón is a 16th-century palace in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, built for Diego Columbus (son of Christopher Columbus). It served as the seat of the Spanish colonial government and is now a museum.

How much does the Alcázar de Colón cost to visit?

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Admission is RD$100 (about $2 USD). It's one of the best value museum experiences in the Dominican Republic.

Plan your visit

Make the most of Alcázar de Colón

Pair this stop with our travel guides and insider tips to build the rest of your trip around it.