Places / North & Central America
Dominican Republic
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At a glance
- Region
- Caribbean
- Capital
- Santo Domingo
- Population
- 11.4 million (2024)
- Area
- 48,671 km²
- Languages
- Spanish
- Currency
- Dominican peso (DOP)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +1
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Before you go
Overview
The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and is the most visited country in the Caribbean. Santo Domingo, founded in 1496, is the oldest European city in the Americas.
History
Christopher Columbus arrived in the country in 1492 and named it Hispaniola meaning little Spain.
Later, Spain surrendered A part of the country, the Hispaniola Island to France in 1795.
A revolt against Spanish rule was conducted leading to independence in 1821. It gained full independence in 1844 and was given its current name.
Food & culture
Its culture is based on European, African and Taino culture.
The main crops grown here include coffee, cocoa, bananas, mangoes, sugar, lemons and oranges.
The most popular dishes are meat stew, plantain mash, white rice, stewed bean, green salad and braised chicken.
Wildlife
Common wildlife animals include dwarf gecko, rhinoceros iguana, frogs, snakes and Hispaniolan Solenodon.
Festivals & events
The carnival is held in February.
Dominican Republic Jazz Festival is held in November.
The Independence Day id held in February.
Things to see
Los Haitises National Park is situated at the northeast region of the country comprising of limestone karst plateau, sinkholes and caverns.
Altos de Chavon is a tourist attraction in La Romana with an archaeological museum, amphitheatre and it’s a cultural centre.
Other must-visit places are Isla Catalina Island, Casa de Campo Resort and Villas, Altos de Chavon and 27 Waterfalls.
Interesting facts
The country is the second-largest nation of the Antilles after Cuba.
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Dominican Republic
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.