Altos de Chavon in La Romana is one of the premier attractions in the Dominican Republic. While the country has many sightseeing spots, few can compare with the charm of this village.
Location
The village can be found in La Romana. It overlooks the Chavon River. The address is Apartado Postal 140, La Romana, Dominican Republic. When you get to the Chavon River, look for a village surrounded by fauna and flora.
What to See
The village architecture is reminiscent of 15th century architecture prevalent in Europe. The layout and style is very much like a typical European village during the medieval age. Like the standard medieval village, the alleyways have cobble over them.
There are shuttered limestone walls and lanterns by the roads. Aside from the sheer beauty of the place, there are also many Mediterranean themed restaurants in Altos de Chavon in La Romana.
The main attraction in the site is the 5,000-seat amphitheater. Constructed in the Roman style, it has been the staging ground for international acts. Frank Sinatra, Duran Duran, the Pet Shop Boys, Julio Iglesias and Andrea Bocelli are just some of the artists who have performed here.
The Regional Museum of Archeology is a repository of pre-Columbian Indian artifacts. These were excavated in the area nearby.
History
Construction of the village began in 1976. It commenced with the building of a road and bridge over the Chavon River. The idea of making a 15th century Mediterranean village was the brainchild of Charles Bludorn of Gulf Western. The edifice was finished during the early 1980s. The present president of village is Dominique Bluhdorn, the son of Charles.
Cost
The entry fee is about 25 USD per individual. This does not include the fees for staying at the local hotels nearby. There are also travel packages that offer tours of the site along with other amenities.
Other Info
The village is also a showcase of the crafts of the native artists. There are galleries showing the talents of the students at the La Escuela de Diseno. This is in association with the Parsons School of Design in New York City.
Those visiting the Altos de Chavon in La Romana should also check out St. Stanislaus Church. The main attractions here are the elaborate fountain and the plaza. The church was named after Poland’s patron saint. This was in honor of Pope John Paul II who went to the country in 1979.
