Santo Domingo, the oldest city in the New World, boasts a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Located on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic, this bustling port city is home to the first cathedral, castle, and university in the Americas. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of the Colonial Zone, sample delicious local cuisine, and soak up the vibrant Caribbean atmosphere.
Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
It is the oldest permanent settlement of Europeans in the Americas and one of the most populous cities in the Caribbean. The city combines Old World charm with a modern Latin American style. Santo Domingo not only offers medieval palaces and fortresses, but also world-class nightlife and shopping. It's easy to spot wild beaches and hidden gems like a salsa and merengue club inside a huge underground cave.
Long ago, in the land that is now the Dominican Republic, there was a powerful cacique named Caonabo. He ruled over his people with an iron fist and demanded their loyalty above all else. One day, a beautiful woman named Anacaona arrived in his court, singing and dancing to enchant all who saw her.
Caonabo was smitten with Anacaona and desired her above all else. However, Anacaona was already married to the cacique of another tribe, and she did not return Caonabo's affections. In a fit of rage and jealousy, Caonabo ordered Anacaona's husband to be killed and took her as his own.
Despite Caonabo's power and influence, Anacaona remained faithful to her people and her husband's memory. She continued to sing and dance, spreading joy and love wherever she went. Her beauty and kindness won the hearts of all who knew her, including the Spanish conquistadors who arrived in the New World years later.
When the Spanish first landed in Santo Domingo, they were greeted by Anacaona herself, who welcomed them with open arms and a warm heart. She invited them to a grand feast and celebration, where they were treated to her singing and dancing.
But the Spanish had come not to make friends, but to conquer. They betrayed Anacaona's trust and took her and her people captive, forcing them to work in the mines and fields. Anacaona never gave up hope, however, and continued to inspire her people with her songs and dances.
Today, Anacaona is remembered as a symbol of hope and resistance against oppression. The port of Santo Domingo, where she once welcomed the Spanish, is now a bustling hub of trade and commerce, serving as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Dominican people.