Columbus discovered the island of Hispaniola (which he called La Espaniola) in 1492 and established it as his main base for the further exploration of the region. Today, the Dominican Republic shares the island with Haiti, a former French colony. Most tourists who come to the island are initially attracted by the magnificent golden sand beaches along its 1,400km (870-mile) coastline. The island’s northern, Atlantic side contains the majority of tourist attractions, hotels and resorts, particularly in the 64km (40-mile) zone between Puerto Plata and Cabarete.

Santo Domingo, in the south, features the very first monuments of the American continent: the first cathedral, the first hospital, the first chapel and the first university. In the centre of the country, the three main mountain ranges run roughly parallel to each other in an easterly/westerly direction. The Cordillera Central is the highest mountain range on the island. It includes Pico Duarte, the highest mountain in the Caribbean at a height of 3,098m (over 10,000ft).

Western influence can be seen in the numerous colonial buildings of the capital Santo Domingo while the African heritage, introduced by African slaves brought to the island by the Spanish, is reflected in its music. The popular song and dance, the merengue, blends both heritages and is celebrated in several festivals which draw large numbers of national and international musicians.

48,072 sq km (18,696 sq miles).

9.2 million (2006).

191.4 per sq km.

Santo Domingo. Population: 2.2 million (2006).

Republic. Gained independence in 1865, after successive attempts.

Spanish is the official language. Some English and French are spoken.

Almost all Christian, with 95% Roman Catholic; there are small Protestant and Jewish minorities.

GMT - 4.

The Dominican lifestyle is more American than Latin, with short siestas and without long, late lunches. The non-Latin ambience is reflected by the fact that, though the culture is rich in Roman Catholic and Spanish influences, 72-hour divorces may be obtained. Daytime dress is generally casual but beachwear and shorts are only acceptable in resorts and at pools; it is considered offensive to enter a church wearing shorts and a T-shirt. Evenings tend to be smarter, with jackets recommended for men at better restaurants, hotels and for social functions.

110 volts AC, 60Hz. American-style two-pin plugs are in use.

President Leonel Fernandez since 2004 (second non-consecutive term).