Old Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic The building located on the corner of Calle de las Damas and El Conde was constructed by Frey Nicolás de Ovando with the aim of renting or leasing to illustrious families. Today it is known as the House of Hernán Cortés for this is where the famous conquistador planned his expedition to Mexico. Other famous conquistadors also lived here such as Francisco Pizarro, the conqueror of Peru, Diego Velasquez and Alonso de Ojeda.
The building was restored in 1978 under the name Casa de Francia and today it houses the offices of the French Embassy and Consulate. Part of the building is dedicated to cultural exhibitions. There is a ballroom for the presentation of shows and exhibitions, a small movie theatre, a library and a room where cigars are hand rolled in traditional fashion. |
