10 Fascinating Dominican Republic Facts You Didn’t Know About
Located in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is a nation that exudes vibrancy, color and cultural richness. Apart from its stunning beaches and great culinary offerings, there are a host of interesting and exciting elements that make it unique. Whether you’re planning a trip to the country or just looking to quench your thirst for knowledge, you’ll delight in these 10 fascinating facts about the Dominican Republic.
1. The Dominican Republic is the oldest country in the New World
Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492, the Dominican Republic is the oldest country in the New World. It served as the gateway to European colonization of the Americas, which makes it an important historical landmark in the region. It’s also home to the first cathedral, hospital, and university in the Americas.
2. Baseball is the national sport
Baseball is a very popular sport in the Dominican Republic, and has a major impact on the culture and economy of the country. The Dominican Republic has produced some of the best baseball players in the world, including Sammy Sosa, David Ortiz, and Bartolo Colón. It’s not unusual to find children playing baseball in the streets, parks and open fields across the country.
3. The Dominican Republic is the second-largest country in the Caribbean
With an area of 18,704 square miles, the Dominican Republic is the second-largest country in the Caribbean, next to Cuba. Despite its large size, it’s also the most visited destination in the Caribbean, and attracts millions of visitors every year with its pristine beaches, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery.
4. Merengue music originated in the Dominican Republic
Merengue music is a fast-paced, lively and rhythmic style of music that originated in the Dominican Republic. The music is characterized by a quick beat, easily recognized by the sound of the guira and tambora, two traditional instruments. Merengue is an essential part of the Dominican Republic’s culture, and is played at various celebrations, including weddings, birthdays, and carnivals.
5. The Dominican Republic has the highest mountain and the lowest point in the Caribbean
The Dominican Republic has diverse geographical features that make it a fascinating place to visit. Its highest peak, Pico Duarte, stands at 10,164ft and is the highest mountain in the Caribbean. On the other extreme, it’s home to the lowest point in the Caribbean, Lake Enriquillo, which is 131ft below sea level.
6. It’s the only place where you can find the rare Hispaniolan Solenodon
The Hispaniolan solenodon is a rare, insect-eating mammal that’s only found in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Its long, flexible snout is an adaptation that allows it to capture insects from the soil, and it’s considered a national treasure due to its rarity and threatened status.
7. The Dominican Republic has a carnival that rivals Brazil’s
Every year, Dominicans celebrate their carnival with a colorful and vibrant parade of dancers, floats, and costumes. The carnival is celebrated around the country, with the biggest celebration happening in Santo Domingo. The carnival is a spectacular display of Dominican culture, and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
8. It’s the most visited country in the Caribbean
The Dominican Republic is blessed with a wealth of natural beauty, from its beaches to its mountains, and is the most visited destination in the Caribbean. It’s known for its hospitality, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, making it an attractive destination for travelers looking for an immersive experience.
9. The Dominican Republic was the first place where sugar was produced in the New World
The Dominican Republic has a rich history in sugar production, and was the first place in the New World where sugar was produced for export. Today, the industry employs thousands of people and continues to be a major contributor to the country’s economy.
10. The Dominican Republic is a leader in renewable energy
The Dominican Republic is renowned for its efforts in renewable energy, particularly in the field of wind power. It has the largest wind farm in the Caribbean, with a total capacity of 121 megawatts, and is a world leader in renewable energy in the Caribbean. This has helped to establish the country as a leader in sustainable development in the region.
Conclusion
The Dominican Republic is a fascinating country with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Boasting the oldest city in the New World, the most visited destination in the Caribbean, and being a leader in renewable energy, the country has a lot to be proud of. Whether you’re planning a trip to the country or just looking to quench your thirst for knowledge, these 10 fascinating facts about the Dominican Republic will give you a great start in your journey of discovery.
