The capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, is also one of the continent's oldest cities. Christopher Columbus, a Spanish explorer, built it in 1498, and today, its walled, cobblestoned historic centre, known as the Zona Colonial, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The earliest cathedral in the Americas, the Alcazar de Colon palace, and the Fortaleza Ozama are just a few of the 16th-century structures that can be seen in the Zona Colonial. The National Pantheon, the Malecon (a waterfront promenade), and Bluefields Park are a few of the other well-liked tourist destinations in Santo Domingo. Several theatres, art galleries, and museums may be found throughout the city. Santo Domingo is a bustling, international city with a fascinating past and lively present. It is a well-liked vacation spot because of its historical sites, stunning beaches, and exciting nightlife. The city serves as the Dominican Republic's principal economic and commercial hub.