Iglesia Regina Angelorum
Historic colonial Gothic church, the first convent for nuns in the Americas, and a popular wedding venue in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Iglesia Regina Angelorum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic colonial Gothic church, the first convent for nuns in the Americas, and a popular wedding venue in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial.
"A beautiful place to visit with great architecture and sound, very popular for weddings."
Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary; confirm before visiting to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Wedding Venue Charm
Often a popular spot for weddings, you might catch a ceremony! :ring:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Gothic Architecture
Admire the somber, grey stone facade with three pointed arches, a testament to its 16th-century origins.
First Nuns' Convent
Explore the site of the first dedicated convent for nuns in the Americas, established in 1564.
Popular Wedding Venue
Witness a beautiful setting often chosen by couples for their special day.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary; confirm before visiting to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Wedding Venue Charm
Often a popular spot for weddings, you might catch a ceremony! :ring:
Architectural Gem
Appreciate the unique colonial Gothic design. :building_construction:
Historical First
Learn about its significance as the first convent for nuns in the Americas. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary; confirm before visiting to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Wedding Venue Charm
Often a popular spot for weddings, you might catch a ceremony! :ring:
Architectural Gem
Appreciate the unique colonial Gothic design. :building_construction:
Historical First
Learn about its significance as the first convent for nuns in the Americas. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Iglesia Regina Angelorum for its beautiful colonial Gothic architecture and its significant historical role as the first convent for nuns in the Americas. It's also a highly sought-after venue for weddings, adding to its romantic appeal. Some note that checking opening hours is crucial as it can sometimes be unexpectedly closed.
"This was the first home built specifically for Catholic nuns in the Americas. These nuns belonged to the Order of Saint Clare, also known as the Poor Clares. The building should not be confused for Iglesia y Convento de Santa Clara [Church and Convent of Saint Clare] located a quarter mile (450m) down the street, which actually housed Franciscan nuns."
Abigail Epplett
"A beautiful building over 425 years old."
Brady Schickinger
"Beautiful place to visit in Madrid"
Isabel Rosario de la Maza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Iglesia Regina Angelorum is located in the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo, at the intersection of Padre Billini and José Reyes streets. You can reach it by taxi, Uber, or by walking if you are already exploring the historic center. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other attractions in the Zona Colonial.
Parking in the Zona Colonial can be challenging. It's best to look for public parking lots or be prepared for street parking, which may be limited. Walking is often the easiest way to navigate the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the church itself is free, though donations are appreciated. Special events or tours might have separate ticketing requirements. It's advisable to check for any specific entry fees or booking requirements, especially if visiting for an event.
Opening hours can vary, and the church may sometimes be closed unexpectedly. It's recommended to check local listings or confirm with nearby attractions before your visit, especially if you are traveling specifically to see it.
Visitors are usually welcome to attend services, but it's respectful to remain quiet and observe the proceedings. If you wish to explore the church at your own pace, it's best to visit outside of scheduled mass times.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The church features a colonial Gothic design, characterized by its somber grey stone facade and three pointed arches. It's a significant example of religious architecture from the colonial era in the Dominican Republic. 
Yes, it is a very popular and beautiful spot for couples to get married. You might be lucky enough to witness a wedding ceremony during your visit.
This church holds the distinction of being the first building constructed specifically for Catholic nuns in the Americas, dating back to 1564. It was home to the Order of Saint Clare.
The church sometimes hosts special events, such as theatrical performances during religious holidays like Semana Santa, or musical events. These can offer a unique way to experience the space.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash photography if it might disturb others.
The exterior, with its colonial Gothic facade, offers great photo opportunities. The surrounding streets of the Zona Colonial also provide a charming backdrop.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💍 Couples
+1🏛️ History Buffs
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial Religious Architecture
+1Visitors often remark on the church's impressive architecture and the great sound within its walls, suggesting a well-designed acoustic space. This attention to detail in construction highlights the craftsmanship of the era. While some social media content touches on the mysterious or even eerie aspects of old churches, the primary impression from reviews and descriptions is one of historical beauty and solemnity.
Beyond its architectural merits, the church's role as a popular wedding venue speaks to its enduring appeal and the romantic ambiance it provides. The combination of historical grandeur and sacred atmosphere makes it a sought-after location for significant life events.
+1The Legacy of the Poor Clares
The fact that this was the first home built specifically for Catholic nuns in the Americas underscores its historical importance. It provided a dedicated space for women to pursue a spiritual life away from the secular world, contributing to the religious fabric of the early colonial society. It's important to distinguish it from other convents, such as the Iglesia y Convento de Santa Clara, which housed different religious orders.
The enduring presence of the church today serves as a testament to the legacy of these religious communities. It continues to be a place of worship and a historical landmark, inviting visitors to reflect on the centuries of faith and devotion that have taken place within its walls.
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