Columbus Lighthouse

The Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colón) is a large cross-shaped memorial and cultural complex on the eastern outskirts of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, completed and inaugurated in 1992. It was built as a mausoleum and monument commemorating Christopher Columbus and transatlantic voyages.

The complex contains exhibition halls, mosaics and a crypt-level mausoleum; the structure’s form is a monumental cross and its exterior lighting and terraces are part of the visitor experience. The site is both a museum space and a ceremonial monument used for national events and tourist visits.

Construction began in the late 20th century and the building was formally opened in 1992 during the 500th anniversary commemorations; Dominican authorities promoted the site as a resting place for Columbus. Scholarly and institutional debate continues over the authenticity of the remains displayed there.

The monument stands on the eastern periphery of Santo Domingo in Santo Domingo Province, on elevated ground overlooking parts of the city and surrounding suburbs.

• Opening and remains: The monument was inaugurated in 1992 as part of the 500th anniversary commemorations of European contact with the Americas; it houses a museum, exhibition spaces and a crypt said by Dominican authorities to contain Christopher Columbus's remains, a claim that has been disputed by historians and other institutions.

What to See #

• Crypt/mausoleum: The main crypt and mausoleum level, which contains the space identified as Columbus's tomb and related memorial displays.
• Museum and exhibition spaces: Museum and exhibition halls inside the monument that present artifacts, mosaics and displays about Columbus and early voyages.
• Plaza and terraces: The monument's exterior plaza and rooftop terraces that offer panoramic views over the city and which are used for ceremonies and public events.