Ruins of the Monastery of San Francisco
Ruinas del Monasterio de San Francisco
The ruins of the first monastery in the Americas, built by the Franciscans in the early 16th century. Merengue and bachata are performed among the broken walls and arches on Sunday evenings.
The monastery was founded in 1508 and was damaged several times by the pirate Francis Drake, earthquakes and warfare. Today, only its imposing stone walls, arches and Franciscan rope relief carvings on the portal remain. The ruins sit on a small hill in the northern part of the colonial zone. They are quiet during the day and good for photos. Every Sunday evening, the “Monastery Concert” (with bands such as Grupo Bonyé) performs outdoors among the ruins, and locals and visitors dance together. It is a great chance to experience Dominican music.
Opening hours
Exterior visible during the day; Sunday concerts approx. 18:00–22:00
Nearby sights
- Ruins of the Hospital San Nicolás de Bari
- Plaza de España
- Museo de las Casas Reales
- Alcázar de Colón
- Ciudad Colonial
- National Pantheon
- Calle Las Damas
- Parque Colón