One of the largest tourist attractions in Santo Domingo - Roman Catholic Cathedral of America, also known as the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The construction of the first Catholic church of the New World began in 1514 under the leadership of Bishop Garcia Padilla and lasted 30 years - until 1544. 12 February 1546 at the request of Emperor Charles V, Pope Paul III granted the status of the Duomo cathedral.

It is quite spacious temple. Its length is 54 meters, width - 23 meters, height to vaulted ceilings - 16 meters, total area of ​​3000 square meters. meters.

With the construction of the cathedral was used golden coral limestone, mined in the local quarries. The appearance of the church can be seen a mixture of Gothic and Baroque with a strong influence of plateresque elements which is particularly evident in the design of the silver altar in 1540. In the cathedral there is a treasure trove, which includes beautiful collection of wooden statues, furniture, jewelry, silverware.

In the square next to the cathedral is a monument to Christopher Columbus and, according to some historical versions, near the main altar of the temple were buried the remains of the great traveler.

In 1990, the Cathedral was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.