One of the things that some people fail to realize is just how packed with history and heritage the Dominican Republic actually is. Of course, many people head to this wonderful, tropical destination to take in the glorious weather, soak up some sunshine, enjoy the pristine beaches and enjoy the laid back charm and vibrant character that can be found here. However, this is also the perfect place to come if you have a strong interest in history and culture, as you will find an abundance of both here.

The capital city if the Dominican Republic is a dream for history lovers, having been discovered back in 1496 by none other than the brother of Christopher Columbus, Bartolome Colombus. This family of intrepid travellers plays a large part in the history of the Dominican Republic, as you will see when you explore the many historical sites and attractions when you come here.

Santo Domingo, the capital city, is the oldest city in the Americas, which is why it is perfect for those that are keen to soak up some of the history and culture of this destination. You will be thrilled with the fascinating things you can learn and the fabulous sights that you will see when you come to this destination.

Some of the ways in which you can explore this fascinating city.

There are many ways in which you can explore the wonderful capital city of Santo Domingo in order to get the most from its historical pleasures and opportunities. This includes:

* Head to the Colonial Zone or the Zona Colonial. The cobbled streets of this area are packed with historical places of interest, such as old buildings, historical structures, monuments and fascinating museums. This is blended with the new, as you will also find many places to shop and eat here, which means that you can enjoy a full and fascinating day in this area

* Take a historic tour of the capital. This is a great way to make sure that you don't miss out on any of the historical sites and places of interest that you want to visit – plus opting for a guided tour means that you can also benefit from the expert knowledge of someone who knows all about the rich history of the area.

* If you want to enjoy learning more about the parts that the Columbus family played in the history of the Dominican Republic, pay a visit to Alcazar de Colon, which was built by the son of Christopher Columbus

With so much history to take in you will be able to enjoy learning a huge amount about the fascinating past of not just this city but the whole of the Dominican Republic, which will be a wonderful and enlightening experience. Whilst Santo Domingo does not have its own beach it is only a short distance from some wonderful beaches and resorts, where you can head if you want to kick back and have some fun, relaxation and rest.

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