The Museo de Las Casas Reales, or the Museum of the Royal Houses, is one of Santo Domingo's most popular historic sites. Housed in the 16th century Palace of the Governor General and Palace of Royal Audiences – once the colonial administrative center for the Spanish West Indies – the museum tells Santo Domingo's history from 1492 through 1821. Guests can browse through thousands of artifacts, tapestries, maps, arms and armor, as well as re-creations of several royal halls. The museum also features pre-Columbian art and replicas of the Christopher Columbus' Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. The museum's interior, marked by gothic Isabeline decorations, white porcelain brick arches and sweeping staircases, makes the structure itself just is as fascinating as the collections it houses.
The Museo de Las Casas Reales is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is RD$30. For more information: 809-682-4202
