Alcázar de Colón (Columbus Palace)

The Alcázar de Colón was originally built in 1514 for Diego Colón, the son of Christopher Columbus, who became viceroy of Spain and the Indies the previous year. It was in this historic building that colonial expeditions were planned and important members of the Spanish court were hosted.

Christopher Columbus had asked to be buried in Santo Domingo, his favorite island, and in 1537, his and Diego's remains were transferred to Santo Domingo, to a temporary location and then to the cathedral.

In larger cities such as Santo Domingo or Santiago, some neighborhoods should be avoided at night. Empty streets, poorly lit areas, and unfamiliar districts can increase risk, just like in many major cities worldwide. Using Uber, authorized taxis, and staying in well-lit populated areas reduces risk significantly.

As seen by the alternate name for the monument, Monumento del IV Centenario, the statue's original purpose was to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the “discovery” of the Americas.