The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation located on the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with Haiti. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant culture. The capital city, Santo Domingo, is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas and features historic architecture and lively markets. The country has a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. The Dominican peso is the official currency. The population is predominantly of mixed European and African descent, and the official language is Spanish. The Dominican Republic is famous for its music, particularly merengue and bachata.