Santo Domingo Church and Plaza
Historic plaza and church in Quito, Ecuador, featuring a unique winged Mary statue, and a vibrant capital in the Dominican Republic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Explore shops & cafes
Santo Domingo Church and Plaza
Best Time
Explore shops & cafes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic plaza and church in Quito, Ecuador, featuring a unique winged Mary statue, and a vibrant capital in the Dominican Republic.
"A wonderful place of beauty and history, though caution is advised at certain hours."
Be Aware of Surroundings
Travelers suggest being cautious at certain hours due to potential safety concerns. :warning:
Explore Beyond the Plaza
Consider excursions like waterfall hikes or cave tours for a fuller experience. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iglesia de Santo Domingo
Quito, Ecuador
A historically significant church within a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beauty and preservation.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
Quito, Ecuador
A historic plaza featuring a unique statue of Mary with wings, surrounded by shops and cafes.
National Park of the Three Eyes
Near Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Explore caves with stunning blue lakes; an adventure outside the city center.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Santo Domingo
Beyond the Plaza: Explore More
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Be Aware of Surroundings
Travelers suggest being cautious at certain hours due to potential safety concerns. :warning:
Explore Beyond the Plaza
Consider excursions like waterfall hikes or cave tours for a fuller experience. :hiking_boot:
Unique Mary Statue
Don't miss the one-of-a-kind statue of Mary with wings overlooking the plaza. :statueofliberty:
Mix of History & Caribbean
Santo Domingo offers a blend of history, culture, and the Caribbean Sea. :ocean:
Best way to spend a day in Santo Domingo
Tips
from all over the internet
Be Aware of Surroundings
Travelers suggest being cautious at certain hours due to potential safety concerns. :warning:
Explore Beyond the Plaza
Consider excursions like waterfall hikes or cave tours for a fuller experience. :hiking_boot:
Unique Mary Statue
Don't miss the one-of-a-kind statue of Mary with wings overlooking the plaza. :statueofliberty:
Mix of History & Caribbean
Santo Domingo offers a blend of history, culture, and the Caribbean Sea. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Plaza de Santo Domingo in Quito to be a beautiful and historic site, particularly appreciating the unique statue of Mary with wings and the well-preserved church. However, some note that the plaza can feel quiet and advise caution regarding safety at certain hours. The Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic is highlighted as a culturally rich alternative to typical beach vacations, offering historical depth and natural excursions.
"The plaza is quite and fell nothing special other than bus stop"
G Santana
"Historic plaza near the old city center in Quito, Ecuador. There is a statue of Mary with wings (only one in the world to depict Mary with wings our guide said) on the hill overlooking the plaza. There are shops and cafes.
We didn’t have the opportunity to go inside the church but the square itself and the surrounding buildings are beautiful."
J Hasker
"A well known plaza in Quito in front of Iglesia de Santo Domingo.
- 2022/09/07"
Van Hao
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Plaza de Santo Domingo is located in the historic center of Quito, Ecuador. It's easily accessible by taxi or public transport within the city. Many visitors find it a convenient starting point for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Yes, Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic offers a rich mix of history, culture, and Caribbean charm, often overlooked by those heading straight to Punta Cana.
From Santo Domingo, you can find excursions to places like the National Park of the Three Eyes or waterfall hikes. These often depart from the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The plaza itself is a public space and generally free to access. However, if you plan to enter the Iglesia de Santo Domingo, there might be specific visiting hours or a small entrance fee for certain areas.
Admission to the National Park of the Three Eyes is approximately $5 USD. It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear for exploring the caves and lakes.
While the plaza is free, access to the interior of the Iglesia de Santo Domingo may involve a fee or have specific visiting hours. It's best to check on-site for the most current information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The plaza features a unique statue of Mary with wings, shops, and cafes. It's a historic square within Quito's UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into the city's past.
While the plaza and surrounding areas are beautiful, some travelers advise being cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially during certain hours.
Beyond the historic city center, consider visiting the National Park of the Three Eyes or exploring other natural attractions outside the immediate urban area.
Visitors often mention not having the opportunity to go inside, but the square and surrounding buildings are noted as beautiful. Check for opening times if you wish to explore the interior.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique statue of Mary with wings and the colonial architecture surrounding the plaza. The church facade also offers great photographic opportunities.
Yes, the historic Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo is very photogenic, with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. The National Park of the Three Eyes also offers unique natural shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring any historic areas, remember that cobblestone streets and older architecture might present challenges for strollers. It's advisable to check for specific family-friendly amenities or tours if available. Prioritizing activities with a clear element of discovery, like the caves, can help keep younger travelers entertained.
🚶 Budget Travelers
In the Dominican Republic, the National Park of the Three Eyes has an accessible admission fee of around $5 USD, making it a cost-effective excursion from Santo Domingo.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Heart of Quito
Travelers often describe the plaza as historic and beautiful, though some mention it can feel quiet or that caution is advised at certain times. Despite this, the architectural beauty and historical significance make it a worthwhile visit for those interested in Quito's rich past. The preservation of this heritage site is frequently highlighted by visitors.
For photographers, the Iglesia de Santo Domingo and the unique Mary with wings statue offer compelling subjects. The colonial architecture surrounding the plaza also provides excellent backdrops. It's a place where history, art, and urban life converge, offering a distinct cultural experience.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: More Than Just Beaches
Beyond the historic Colonial Zone, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site itself, Santo Domingo serves as a departure point for unique excursions. Travelers can explore natural wonders such as the National Park of the Three Eyes, a fascinating system of caves with stunning blue lakes. This offers an adventurous contrast to the city's historical sites and nearby beach resorts.
For those seeking a more comprehensive Dominican experience, Santo Domingo presents an opportunity to engage with the country's past and natural beauty. It's a reminder that the island offers diverse attractions, from ancient architecture to breathtaking natural landscapes, catering to a variety of interests.
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