Modeled after the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, the building’s Doric columns, plaza, and dome are often city tour highlights. For a more intimate glimpse of the palace, art lovers can visit the National Gallery of Fine Arts, watching out for staircase murals by José Vela Zanetti and an array of Dominican artworks. For a truly immersive experience, visit to see one of the regular dance shows, orchestral performances, and plays.
Find performance schedules on the Palace and National Gallery’s websites and social media.
History buffs may be interested in the origins of the building, commissioned by former dictator Rafael Trujillo.
Wheelchair users should contact the gallery ahead of time to clarify access arrangements.
The palace stands on Avenue Máximo Gómez, one of the city’s main thoroughfares. Zona Universitaria, Guibia Public Beach, and several other city museums are all within walking distance, making this an ideal walking tour stop-off. Joaquín Balaguer Station is the closest metro stop.
The National Gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday, with reduced weekend hours, making for a convenient wet weather activity whenever the Caribbean rain strikes. The public can visit the rest of the palace only during ticketed events.
After taking in fine art, culture vultures can take a short trip up the street to the Plaza de la Cultura. There, they’ll find plenty more Santo Domingo cultural institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art, National Theater, and National Museum of Natural History.