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Casa del Cordón

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Historical site
—°3
Casa del Cordón (Dominican Republic)

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The Casa del Cordón is the oldest stone house in the New World and an exceptional example of Spanish colonial architecture in Santo Domingo. Constructed in 1502, the building derives its name from the stone cord of the Franciscan Order intricately carved above its main entrance. It originally served as the residence of Francisco de Garay, a prominent Spanish administrator and a companion of Columbus. The architecture blends Late Gothic elements with Renaissance influences and features a magnificent central courtyard. A historically poignant moment occurred here in 1586, when the wealthy women of the city surrendered their jewelry to meet the ransom demands of the privateer Francis Drake. Today, the building houses a banking institution and small exhibition spaces, with the historic fabric of the structure having been meticulously preserved. The Casa del Cordón is an essential stop for any visitor seeking to understand the early history of European settlement in the Americas.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252525262727282828272625
Rain mm242122406848556860646842

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Casa del Cordón is considered the oldest surviving European-style stone house in the Americas and is open as a museum. Visitors can admire the thick stone walls and colonial architecture inside.
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Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, often from 9 AM to 5 PM. Holiday hours may differ; check in advance.
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Photography
Photography indoors is generally allowed, but without flash to protect historical materials. In some rooms, tripod use may be restricted.
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Time needed
A visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes, enough for a tour of the main rooms. If you want to study the construction details, allow an hour.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with nearby Tostado House and other museums in the colonial zone. The entire area is walkable and rich in historic sites.
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Getting there
Casa del Cordón is located on Calle de las Damas in Santo Domingo's colonial zone. It's easily reachable on foot from Colón Park; taxis stop nearby.
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Insider tip
Look for the stone Franciscan rope above the door, which gave the house its name. Early morning is less crowded and the atmosphere is especially authentic.

Geography

Coordinates
18.47510, -69.88240

Facts

  • The Casa del Cordón was constructed between 1502 and 1503.
  • It is widely regarded as the first two-story house built in the New World.
  • Francisco de Garay, its first owner, later served as the Governor of Jamaica.
  • The frieze above the main entrance depicts the cord of Saint Francis of Assisi.
  • In 1586, Francis Drake used this building to negotiate the terms of the city's ransom.
  • The structure was damaged during the 1971 earthquake and subsequently restored.

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Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Casa del Cordón (3)

National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic📍 landmark

Former Jesuit church in Santo Domingo, now a national memorial for heroes.

Plaza de España (Santo Domingo)📍 landmark

Large square in Santo Domingo's old town, surrounded by historic buildings.

Battle of Santo Domingo (1586)📍 landmark

Naval battle off Santo Domingo between English and Spanish fleets in 1586.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Casa del Cordón?
It is considered the first two-story stone house in the New World, built around 1503.
Where does the house get its name from?
From the stone cord of the Franciscan order carved above the main entrance.
Is the house still in use today?
Yes, it now houses the offices of a bank, but it can be partially visited.
Where is the building located?
On Calle Isabel la Católica, in the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.
How much time is needed for a visit?
A brief look at the facade and the courtyard takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Casa del Cordón: where is it located?
Casa del Cordón is located in Dominican Republic.
Casa del Cordón: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic, Plaza de España (Santo Domingo), Battle of Santo Domingo (1586).
Casa del Cordón: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Casa del Cordón: why is it worth visiting?
The Casa del Cordón is the oldest stone house in the New World and an exceptional example of Spanish colonial architecture in Santo Domingo.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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A 16th-century palace that documents the history of the colonial period.
🗺️
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