Santiago de los Caballeros,or simplySantiago,is the second-largest city in theDominican Republic, and the fourth-largest city in theCaribbean.Founded in 1495 during the first wave of European settlement in theNew World, the city is the "firstSantiagoof the Americas".Today the city is one of theDominican Republic's cultural, political, industrial, and financial centers. Due to its location in the fertileCibao Valleyit has a robust agricultural sector and is a leading exporter of rum, textiles, and cigars. Known as "La Ciudad Corazón" (the "Heartland City"), Santiago offers many breathtaking sites and landmarks.