Designed by Italian architect Guido D’Allessandro, the three-story building spans around 193,750 square feet (18,000 square meters) and is surrounded by formal gardens. Featuring an impressive dome supported by 18 columns, the palace was built from marble quarried from the Dominican Republic. In addition to the presidential, vice presidential, and other government offices, there are numerous reception rooms, including the Ambassadors’ Room and the Caryatid Hall, known for its sculpted columns of female figures.
As a working seat of government, the National Palace is typically closed to the public, though visits can be requested, and tours are occasionally provided with prior arrangements. Most sightseeing tours of Santo Domingo include a quick stop at the National Palace to view the exterior and take photos, sometimes with the guards.