The
Distrito Nacional (D.N.) is a subdivision of the
Dominican Republic enclosing the capital
Santo Domingo. It is not within any of the
provinces, but in practice it acts as province on its own. Before October 16, 2001, the Distrito Nacional was much larger, including what is now known as
Santo Domingo Province. Published statistics and maps generally show the former, larger, Distrito Nacional. The Distrito Nacional has no rural or undeveloped areas.