National Palace (Dominican Republic) Explained

National Palace
Native Name:Palacio Nacional
Native Name Lang:Spanish
Location:Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Coordinates:18.4742°N -69.8978°W
Architect:Guido D'Alessandro
Completion Date:August 16, 1947
Floor Area:18000sqm
Style:Neoclassical

The National Palace (es|'''Palacio Nacional''') is a building in Santo Domingo, that houses the offices of the executive branch (presidency and vice presidency) of the Dominican Republic.

History

Designed in a restrained neoclassical style by Italian architect Guido D'Alessandro at the behest of Rafael Trujillo, construction started on February 27, 1944—the centenary of Dominican independence—and was inaugurated on August 16, 1947. Occupying an area of 18,000 square metres and luxuriously appointed throughout, the National Palace is considered one of the most beautiful buildings built in the Dominican Republic.[1]

The building stands on the grounds of the former Presidential Mansion (Mansión Presidencial), built during the United States occupation of the Dominican Republic (1916–1924)

In popular culture

The Palace and mainly the Hall of the Caryatids was used for the new year's scene in The Godfather Part II where Michael confronts Fredo about his betrayal.[2]

External links

Notes and References

  1. Editora Hoy. Nuestros Monumentos: Album Educativo en el Año del V Centenario del Descubrimiento y Envangelización de América. Santo Domingo: Editora Hoy, [1992].
  2. Web site: El Padrino parte II. www.diariolibre.com. 2016-03-18.