Explore the Historic Fuerte de San Lázaro
Visit Fuerte de San Lázaro, a historic monument in Santo Domingo, to uncover the tales of the past and enjoy stunning views of the Colonial Zone.
Fuerte de San Lázaro is an impressive historical monument nestled in the heart of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fort, built in the late 16th century, served a crucial role in the defense of the city against pirates and foreign invaders. As you approach the fort, you'll be captivated by its sturdy stone walls and strategic location overlooking the picturesque landscape. The architecture reflects the rich colonial history of the Dominican Republic, making it an intriguing destination for those interested in history and culture. Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved structures and learn about its historical significance through informative displays. The site is not only a monument to military history but also offers stunning views of the surrounding area, perfect for photography enthusiasts. As you wander through the fort's grounds, you may imagine the soldiers who once stood guard, protecting the city from external threats. In addition to its historical value, Fuerte de San Lázaro is situated close to other attractions in the Zona Colonial, allowing visitors to easily incorporate it into a day of exploration. The vibrant streets surrounding the fort are lined with charming cafes, shops, and other historical landmarks, making it an ideal starting point for a deeper dive into Santo Domingo's rich heritage.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like Alcázar de Colón and the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the fort's history and significance.
A brief summary to Fuerte de San Lázaro
- C. Juan Isidro Perez 7, Santo Domingo, Zona Colonial, 10211, DO
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start by setting your GPS to Fuerte de San Lázaro, located at C. Juan Isidro Perez 7, Santo Domingo 10211. Navigate towards the Zona Colonial, which is a well-known area. Look for parking options nearby, as street parking may be limited. There are several parking lots in the vicinity, and be mindful of parking fees which can range from 50 to 100 DOP per hour.
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Public Transportation (Metro)
Take the Santo Domingo Metro Line 1 and alight at the 'Francisco Alberto Caamaño' station. From there, you can either walk (approximately 20 minutes) towards Zona Colonial or take a local taxi or motorcycle taxi (motoconcho) for a small fee of around 100-150 DOP. Head towards C. Juan Isidro Perez, and you will find Fuerte de San Lázaro.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
If you're using the local bus service, look for bus routes that head towards Zona Colonial. You can catch a bus from various points in Santo Domingo; the fare is usually about 25 DOP. Once you arrive in the Zona Colonial area, ask locals for directions to C. Juan Isidro Perez, where Fuerte de San Lázaro is located. It is a short walk from the main bus stops.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more convenient option, consider taking a taxi or using rideshare services like Uber. Simply input the address 'C. Juan Isidro Perez 7, Santo Domingo 10211' into the app, and the driver will take you directly to Fuerte de San Lázaro. Expect to pay between 200 to 400 DOP depending on your starting location within the Metropolitan Area.
Attractions Nearby to Fuerte de San Lázaro
- Church of Our Lady of Mercies
- Mercado las flores
- Vendedores De Flores
- Colonial Zone Dominican Republic
- Puerta del Conde
- Memorial Museum of Dominican Resistance
- San Francisco Monastery
- Iglesia Parroquial San Carlos Borromeo
- Independence Park
- Plaza España cuidad colonial
- Santuario Arquidiocesano Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
- Hospital Saint Nicholas of Bari
- Recepcionista
- Altar de la Patria
- Puerta del Barrio Chino en Santo Domingo
Landmarks nearby to Fuerte de San Lázaro
- Fuerte de San Lázaro
- Ruinas de La Caridad
- Sirena
- Plaza Patriótica Francisco del Rosario Sánchez
- Santo Domingo
- Cuesta de la Calle Hostos
- Mural Somos Ciudad Nueva (Ruta de Murales Historicos de Ciudad Nueva
- Casa de La Moneda de Santo Domingo
- Plaza Patriótica a los Caídos de la Revolución de Abril de 1965
- Dirección de Patrimonio Monumental Santo Domingo
- Monumento al Coronel Fernández Domínguez y a los mártires de 1965
- Estátua de Cristóbal Colón
- Pat'e Palo European Brasserie