By José Arias
El Inmobiliario
SANTO DOMINGO – The Casa del Cordón, located in the historic center of Santo Domingo, is considered by historians to be the first two-story stone house built during the time of Diego Columbus and his wife, María de Toledo. Its construction dates back to 1503.
The cord displayed on its facade refers to the Franciscan Order, those religious figures who promoted justice and social equality among the residents of the eastern part of Hispaniola.
Today, the historic building has become the Casa del Cordón Taíno Cultural Center, thanks to the initiative of Banco Popular, which, on the occasion of its 60th anniversary, transformed the old residence into a wonderful entity renovated in its architecture and interior design intended to house the permanent collection on the history, life and works of our first inhabitants, the Taíno.
The project is an initiative of the Executive Vice Presidency of Corporate Communications, Reputation, and Responsible Banking at Grupo Popular. It is managed by its director, Ms. Carmen Rita Cordero.
On November 20, 2024, it was inaugurated by President Luis Abinader accompanied by his wife, Raquel Arbaje, and the president of the Board of Directors of Grupo Popular, Manuel A. Grullón and his wife, the ambassador of the Dominican Republic in France, Rosa Hernández.
One room recreates the history of the Casa del Cordón since 1503. (EXTERNAL SOURCE).
Banco Popular's proposal hopes to establish itself as a new cultural, educational, and tourist landmark in the Colonial City of Santo Domingo, for both local and international visitors, since in addition to the permanent Taíno exhibition, the center is enriched with a temporary exhibition hall and a program of activities and talks.
The new house promises
Facade of the Casa del Cordón, the first two-story stone building in the Americas. (EXTERNAL SOURCE).
Since its inauguration this past tropical autumn, the new architectural gem has received 8,504 visitors. Some 1,105 people, equivalent to 13% of the total, were foreign visitors, mostly from North America, Europe, and South America.
Most foreign visitors came from the United States, Colombia, and Spain, while the store in the new building has surpassed RD$1.6 million in sales of items from renowned local artisans. It boasts an exquisite café with a diverse menu to suit all tastes and preferences.
Fitur
At the 45th edition of the International Tourism Fair -Fitur 2025- in Madrid, Spain, the Taíno Casa del Cordón Center was presented to hoteliers, investors and the official delegation of the Dominican Republic participating.
Visit this new initiative to learn about our ancient history, see temporary exhibitions by renowned national and international artists, and enjoy a new space for the whole family in Santo Domingo. Its address is Isabel La Católica Street, corner of Emiliano Tejera, Colonial City.
Originally published in the 10th edition of El Inmobiliario print magazine.
Photos: External source.
