Altar of the Homeland, White marble mausoleum in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The Altar of the Homeland is a white marble mausoleum in the Baluarte del Conde, at the centre of Santo Domingo's Parque Independencia. Two massive square pillars flank a recessed entrance, each topped by a carved panel with a fern motif; above the doorway sits a red, white and blue coat of arms. Inside, statues of Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez and Ramón Matías Mella, carved by Italian sculptor Nicholas Arrighini, stand around an eternal flame.

The mausoleum was built in 1976 to house the remains of Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez, and Ramón Matías Mella, the founding fathers of the Dominican Republic. These three men had previously rested in the Chapel of the Immortals at Santo Domingo Cathedral.

The site hosts national holidays and memorial ceremonies where citizens gather to honor their founding figures. The structure's design reflects how these leaders remain central to Dominican identity today.

The monument is open daily to visitors, and it is best to wear comfortable shoes since the surrounding grounds involve level walking paths. Guided tours offer detailed explanations, though visitors can also explore the exterior on their own.

The remains of the three founding fathers lay in the Puerta del Conde for 33 years, from March 27, 1943 until the Altar de la Patria was completed in 1976. The statues inside were carved by Italian sculptor Nicholas Arrighini. Above the entrance, a red, white and blue coat of arms with green branches faces the steps of Independence Park.