By Second Antonio Vásquez
In Santo Domingo, there are unique symbols that often go unnoticed by passersby. One such symbol is the cross, which can be found not only on the exterior of temples but also in other types of buildings and open spaces. These crosses hold significance for religious, military, and civilian orders and decorations, as well as for pharmacies, the Red Cross, and other healthcare services.
A Variety of Crosses
Cruces come in different forms and designs. There is the Cross of Lorraine, with its two horizontal bars, and the Maltese Cross, which has four arms that widen at the ends. Then, there is the Latin Cross, with one arm longer than the other three, and the Swastika Cross, whose arms turn to the right. We also have the St. Andrew’s Cross in the shape of an X, the Greek Cross with arms of equal length, and the Gamada Cross, with arms of equal length that turn in the same direction. Other notable crosses include the Egyptian Cross, Trefoil Cross, Anchored Cross, and Potent Cross.
Unveiling Symbolism in Santo Domingo
In the former residence of Casa del Tapado, located on the corner of 19 de Marzo Street and Padre Billini, there is a stone-carved shield above the entrance. In its center is a cross surrounded by a rosary and three rolled scrolls.
At the front of the old Jesuit temple, now occupied by the National Pantheon, you can observe a gated bell tower. Its upper section has a roof adorned with triangular moldings, culminating in an iron cross.
Likewise, inside the courtyard of the Museum of the Royal Houses, at the corner of Las Mercedes and Las Damas Streets, there is a well with a metal structure on top of its brick-lined wellhead. The structure forms a cross as its pinnacle.
On Mella Road, opposite the first Texaco gas station, there is an old entrance that leads to the current Villa Faro neighborhood. In the middle of a concrete roundabout stands the Mendoza Cross. This location used to host the celebration of the Cruz de Mayo (May Cross), the only known capital cross commemoration.
In the building located at the corner of Las Mercedes and Duarte, now housing the República Argentina school, there is a concrete cross at the pinnacle. This building was initially constructed to accommodate the Serafín de Asís girls’ school.
The entrance to the Callejón de los Curas (Priests’ Alley) is marked by the continuation of the upper part of the side walls of adjacent houses, creating a smaller brick arch that culminates in a double-barred iron cross, intricately woven and topped with a crown.
In the garden of the Plazoleta de los Curas (Priests’ Square), at each corner, two curious pyramidal pinnacles carved in stone stand atop four double arches. On the inclined sides and raised sections of these structures, crosses can be observed.
Unusual Crosses in Santo Domingo
It is uncommon to find crosses on the roofs of the main temples in Santo Domingo. However, after the construction of the Primada Cathedral of America, a brick bell tower was added, crowned with an iron cross enclosed by double bars. Additionally, on the right side of the main entrance, there is a niche with the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. At its pinnacle, a double-barred iron cross encloses branches with clover leaves.
Similarly, the evangelical temple located at the corner of Las Mercedes and 19 de Marzo has a galvanized iron cross above its clock tower. Likewise, on the roof of the La Altagracia sanctuary, situated at the intersection of Hostos and Mercedes Streets, there is a concrete cross with a central roundel. Finally, the belfry of the Capilla de los Remedios (Chapel of Remedies) features an iron cross.
Unveiling these crosses scattered throughout Santo Domingo allows us to appreciate the diverse symbolism deeply embedded in the city’s architecture. These crosses are not merely decorations but serve as markers of identity, faith, and history.
Let us take a moment to pause and observe these often overlooked symbols, reminding ourselves of the rich cultural tapestry that makes Santo Domingo truly unique.
