What is today the Panteon Nacional or National Mausoleum, was the last building constructed by the Spanish in Santo Domingo . Built between 1714 and 1748, it originally served as a Jesuit church consisting of a central nave and two lateral chapels. When the Jesuits were expelled the building went through a series of different uses, acting as a warehouse for tobacco, a theatre, a school and as headquarters for various governmental institutions. In 1955 the building was restored and became a tomb for national heroes. Since then, an Honor Guard stands at attention at the entrance. On the ceiling is a mural by the Spanish artist, Rafael Pellicer, called "Ascensión a los Cielos" (Ascension to Heaven) and "El Juicio Final" (The final Judgment).

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Kate H.

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Kate H.

Apr 16, 2010

A beautiful and humbling place. Like any place you visit that has an Honor Guard, there are always people around trying to get them to crack a smile, but these guards were good! And considering the heat i was impressed that they were able to stand there for as long as they did in their uniforms....it was sweltering! The mural on the ceiling is beautiful, and its worth it to take a look around inside. You'll see the names of key figures in the history of the Dominican Republic, with Admirals, Presidents, and even the people who designed the countries flag and wrote the national anthem.

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