The National District is a subdivision of the Dominican Republic where the city of Santo Domingo, capital of the country, is located. The National District in the geographical demarcation in which rests the headquarters of the Dominican government, this district is considered "special" given its political importance, is neither municipality, nor province, although technically it exercises the function of both. From 1844 to 1932 it was called the Province of Santo Domingo, in 1932 it was renamed the National Province. In 1935 it became the National District and the following year it would be renamed Santo Domingo District, returned to the previous denomination in 1955. The National District has suffered from numerous territorial divisions that have reduced its jurisdiction.
The last occasion was on October 16,2001, when the new Santo Domingo province was created.