Museum of the Casas Reales (Museum of the Royal Houses), Santo Domingo

Museum of the Royal Houses is a captivating historical treasure that dates back to the colonial era of Hispaniola. Constructed in the sixteenth century, this magnificent building was originally designed to serve as the administrative headquarters for the Spanish colonies in the Americas. Commissioned by the Spanish Crown on October 5, 1511, the palace was meticulously constructed as two interconnected buildings to house the essential government offices of the colony.

The southern section of the Museum of the Royal Houses served as the Royal Audiencia, which functioned as the first court of the New World. Additionally, it housed the office of the Comptroller General. Meanwhile, the northern section was utilized by successive Viceroys, Governors, and Captains-General, making it an integral part of the region's colonial governance.

Throughout its history, the building underwent various transformations. During the period of French sovereignty over the Eastern part of Hispaniola in 1807, General Louis Ferrand bestowed the facade with a classical architectural style, adding to its grandeur. Subsequent changes were made to adapt the building for use as the Governmental Palace during the last year of President Carlos Felipe Morales's administration. Later, during the government of Rafael Leónidas Trujillo, further modifications were carried out to accommodate government offices.

Eventually, the building underwent a restoration process that brought it back to its original 16th-century appearance, preserving its historical authenticity. On October 18, 1973, during the administration of President Joaquín Balaguer, the Museum of the Royal Houses was established as a museum dedicated to showcasing the history, life, and customs of the inhabitants of the Spanish colony. However, it was not officially opened to the public until May 31, 1976, in a momentous ceremony attended by King Juan Carlos I of Spain.

Today, the Museum of the Royal Houses stands as one of the most visited and revered attractions in Santo Domingo. As visitors step inside the museum's hallowed halls, they are transported back in time, gaining a deeper understanding of the country's colonial past and the impact of Spanish rule on the region's cultural heritage.