Hospital San Nicolás de Bari (San Nicolas de Bari Hospital), Santo Domingo

San Nicolás de Bari Hospital holds a remarkable place in history as the oldest hospital ever constructed in the Americas. Although now preserved as a ruin, the hospital's origins date back to a grand project that took shape in different stages between 1503 and 1552. The desire to emulate European princely courts and draw inspiration from Renaissance Italy guided its design, with the Hospital de San Nicolás likely modeled after the large Hospital of Sancto Spiritu in Rome.

The hospital complex, which once occupied most of the block, was an architectural marvel built on two stories, following a cross-shaped plan. Four courtyards, situated at each corner, provided ample light, ventilation, and open space for the various hospital facilities. The structure featured three naves in line with contemporary European hospital designs, with a central nave for worship and two lateral naves to house the sick. This layout allowed patients to be just steps away from the sanctuary and chapel, located at the core of the hospital. Additionally, a separate private chapel, now incorporated into the adjacent 20th Century Church of La Altagracia, further enriched the spiritual aspect of the hospital.

The San Nicolás de Bari Hospital exhibited a captivating blend of architectural styles, combining Gothic and Renaissance elements with a notable Mudéjar influence, characteristic of 16th-century buildings in Santo Domingo. The interior arches, for instance, supported Gothic rib vaults on the second floor, while displaying barrel vaults on the ground floor, showcasing the harmonious amalgamation of diverse design features.

By 1908, the hospital had already become a ruin, and part of its façade had collapsed. Despite its current state, the San Nicolás de Bari Hospital still stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity and advancements of its time. Its innovative design served as a model for other hospitals throughout Spanish America, leaving a lasting impact on the region's medical facilities. Notably, Hernando Cortés drew inspiration from this vanguardist plan when constructing the Hospital de la Concepción in Mexico in 1524.