Faro a Colón, Columbus Lighthouse of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Faro a Colón is a monument with many names: The Columbus Lighthouse, El Faro Colon, and Faro a Colon. Learn about this unusual destination, and discover whether it’s worth a visit on your next trip.

What Is The Columbus Lighthouse?

The Columbus Lighthouse is a monument shaped like a cross, a museum, and a tomb with Columbus’ remains.

Faro a Colón is not a true lighthouse. Instead, when lit, it displays beams of colorful laser light visible across sea and sky: a symbolic beacon of hope.

Unfortunately, the high-energy beams can drain the power grid. So, the “beacon” is only lit on special occasions:

  • February, for Carnival
  • August 1st, for Fiesta de Santo Domingo
  • Irregular occasions

    What’s Inside Faro a Colon?

    Tomb of Christopher Columbus’ Remains
    The central chapel houses artworks—paintings and marble busts—of both saints and historic figures, surrounding an ornate, neo-gothic tomb.

Inside, the tomb is filled with bronze lions, bas relief depictions of Columbus’ story, 280 marble sculptures and columns, and an altar. The centerpiece: a bronze urn holding Columbus’ bones.

Notably, historians debate the veracity of the remains.

Museum Celebrating History & Culture

The Columbus Lighthouse museum has displays celebrating 40+ nations’ cultures. It also highlights the Americas’ history.

Faro a Colón: Facts & Figures

Location

Santo Domingo Este, Greater Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Address

Av Mirador del Este,
Santo Domingo Este 11604,
Dominican Republic

Height

131 ft. (40 m)

Length of “Vertical” Cross Section

680 ft. (210 m)

Width of “Horizontal” Cross Section

195 ft. (59 m)

Number of Lasers

138

Number of Nations Represented In Museum

40+

Ticket Costs (Range)

RD$25 ($0.42 USD) - RD$200 ($4 USD)

Tue. - Sat. Hours

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sun. Hours

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Best Things To Do & See At The Columbus Lighthouse

While Columbus’ tomb and mausoleum is the site’s centerpiece, there’s a lot more to explore within the monument.

Ceremonial Guard Formation

Faro a Colón is secured by ceremonial guards. They wear formal white uniforms with epaulettes, hold traditional silver muskets, stand post and move in precise military formations. The changing of the guard is an elegant performance, drawing an audience.

Ceramic Art and Iconography Museum

This museum within the monument protects and displays works of ceramic art, carvings, and icons donated by neighboring countries. Many represent the indigenous cultures of those nations. Notable pieces include jewelry from ancient Colombia.

Cartography Library

The cartography library displays authentic and replica historic maps used by Columbus and his compatriots. It is available for researchers and casual visitors on request.

New & Classic International Culture Exhibits

Over 40 countries have dedicated rooms and displays in the space—and more are added all the time. Many of the rooms offer significant representation of indigenous cultural artifacts, including a replica Taino canoe.

The most recent addition is a permanent exhibit celebrating the culture and people of Guyana, a South American Caribbean nation. The exhibit is part of a broader political project to strengthen ties among Caribbean countries.

Nearby Attractions & Destinations In Santo Domingo

Many travelers combine a visit to Faro a Colón with exploration of another nearby destination. Popular options include:

  • Playa Punta Torrecillas, a close island beach
  • Three Eyes Park, a national park with pristine subterranean lagoon
  • Zona Ciudad Colonial, a preserved colonial neighborhood in Santo Domingo and protected UNESCO World Heritage Site

Experience The Best Of The Dominican Republic With Caravan

Embark on a stress-free adventure to Santo Domingo and beyond—curated by Caravan.

For more information about Caravan’s weeklong Dominican Republic Tour, or anything else we offer, call us toll-free at 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826). Book by phone with our toll-free number, or call 1 (312) 321-9800.

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