Iglesia de Las Mercedes
A stunning colonial Gothic church in Santo Domingo's historic heart, showcasing unique art and centuries of devotion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Iglesia de Las Mercedes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning colonial Gothic church in Santo Domingo's historic heart, showcasing unique art and centuries of devotion.
"A beautiful cathedral with much to see! It doesn't look like much on the outside but when you step inside, "Wow!""
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate carvings and unique pulpit inside. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Colonial City
The church is in the heart of the historic district, perfect for a walking tour. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gothic Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the striking colonial Gothic design, a testament to 16th-century craftsmanship.
Baroque High Altar
Main Altar
Behold the ornate Baroque high altar, a stunning centerpiece of the church's interior.
Serpent Demon Pulpit
Interior
Discover the unique wooden pulpit supported by a striking serpent demon figure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate carvings and unique pulpit inside. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Colonial City
The church is in the heart of the historic district, perfect for a walking tour. :athletic_shoe:
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this active place of worship. :womanintunic:
🗓️ Check for Events
Special masses or processions might be happening, adding to the experience. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate carvings and unique pulpit inside. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Colonial City
The church is in the heart of the historic district, perfect for a walking tour. :athletic_shoe:
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this active place of worship. :womanintunic:
🗓️ Check for Events
Special masses or processions might be happening, adding to the experience. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Iglesia de Las Mercedes for its beautiful colonial Gothic architecture and rich history, noting its significant presence within Santo Domingo's UNESCO World Heritage site. The unique interior features, like the serpent demon pulpit and Baroque altar, are often highlighted as particularly impressive, offering a striking contrast to its exterior. While it's an active place of worship, its historical value makes it a compelling stop for tourists and history enthusiasts.
"Beautiful 500-ish year old church. Wonderful architecture and right in the middle of the historic district on the south east portion of Santo Domingo (easily seen from the ferries!"
Josh N
"The Church of Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes is a colonial Gothic church located in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Colonial City of Santo Domingo".
The construction of this religious building began in the year 1549, and was completed in 1616, built by Rodrigo de Liendo. It was an ancient seminary, later a monastery. This building was seriously damaged during the invasion of the English corsair Sir Francis Drake in 1586.
The Church of Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes has a wide vaulted nave with side chapels located between its buttresses. It has a high choir, an octagonal apse and a high altar in the Baroque style. It is notable for its wooden pulpit which is supported by a support in the form of a serpent demon."
Alessio Burtone
"Iconic, it is a must if you are a tourist or history follower."
Oscar Dalmasy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Iglesia de Las Mercedes is located in the historic Colonial City of Santo Domingo. It's easily accessible by foot if you're already exploring the Zona Colonial. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available to drop you off nearby. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other historical sites in the area.
Parking in the Colonial City can be challenging due to narrow streets and pedestrian zones. It's often best to park in a designated public lot or garage on the outskirts of the Colonial City and walk to the church.
Yes, the church is visible from the ferries, offering a picturesque view as you approach the historic district.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the Iglesia de Las Mercedes, as it is an active place of worship. Donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The church is typically open during daylight hours, but specific times can vary. It's advisable to check locally or visit during standard daytime hours to ensure it's accessible. 
Yes, the Iglesia de Las Mercedes is a functioning church and holds regular masses. You can find schedules for services, including special masses like 'Misas de Aguinaldo' during Christmas, which are a significant tradition.
Visiting during religious holidays can be a unique experience, offering a glimpse into local traditions and devotion, such as processions for the Virgen de las Mercedes. However, expect larger crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
The unique Gothic architecture, the ornate Baroque altar, and the distinctive serpent demon pulpit are prime subjects. The exterior also offers great photo opportunities, especially with the surrounding historic district.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The church is a notable example of colonial Gothic architecture, with elements that reflect its construction period starting in 1549.
The church was significantly damaged during the English corsair Sir Francis Drake's invasion in 1586, highlighting its historical significance and resilience.
The interior features a wide vaulted nave, side chapels, a high choir, an octagonal apse, and a striking wooden pulpit supported by a serpent demon figure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it is an active place of worship, so maintaining a respectful volume and demeanor is important. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more space to observe without feeling overwhelmed. Combining the visit with other more interactive historical sites in the Colonial City might be beneficial for younger visitors.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the Baroque high altar and the exceptionally unique serpent demon pulpit. These elements provide deep insights into the artistic and religious expressions of the era. Exploring its role as a former seminary and monastery adds further layers to its historical significance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels
One of the most distinctive features is the wooden pulpit, a remarkable piece of craftsmanship. Uniquely, it is supported by a base shaped like a serpent demon, adding a touch of the macabre and symbolic to the sacred space. The high altar itself is a testament to Baroque artistry, further enhancing the church's interior splendor.
Despite enduring damage from historical events like the invasion by Sir Francis Drake in 1586, the church has been preserved and stands as a testament to its enduring architectural and historical value. Its presence in the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo underscores its importance.
Devotion and Tradition
+1Throughout the year, the church hosts various religious events and celebrations that draw faithful from across the region. These include significant observances like Holy Week, where vigils and sermons mark the sacred period, and Christmas festivities featuring 'Misas de Aguinaldo' (early morning Christmas masses) accompanied by traditional carols.
+1Processions are a common and vibrant expression of faith associated with the church, especially during the feast days of the Virgen de las Mercedes. These processions are a powerful display of community and shared belief, often seen in various locations where her devotion is strong.
The church also plays a role in intercessory prayer, with Mercedarian priests advocating for the imprisoned, highlighting the Virgen's role as a protector of those in need. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit