One of the main attractions of the Dominican Republichas no relation to local history. The miniature medieval town of the Renaissance is a reconstruction of the Spanish village of the XV century. Despite the fact that this is a so-called replica, it is incredibly popular among tourists.
The history of the appearance of a small oasis
On the territory of the picturesque resort of Casa de Campois a city of artists in the Dominican Republic, located on a high hill. A man-made monument overlooking the Chavon River has appeared, thanks to the desire of the American millionaire to present an unusual gift to his daughter. Charles Blahdorn, the owner of a successful company that has been producing and producing paintings, and developing sugarcane plantations in a country where summer lasts all year round. The magnate, who first visited the republic, was fascinated by her amazing beauty. He decided to move here for permanent residence, having bought a luxury mansion.
Богач захотел преподнести своей дочери необычный surprise and invited the famous Hollywood decorator to design the project, which began in 1976. The American dreamed of reconstructing a Spanish medieval complex with narrow ornate streets, paved with cobblestones, cozy houses with arches and balconies, and artists and architects brought a romantic touch to a small oasis.
Unusual gift
Above the creation of the appearance of the future city of artists in the Dominican Republic were attended by masters familiar with the crafts of a distant era, because the customer wanted to achieve historical authenticity.
After 16 years, in 1992, Blahdorn presentedhis daughter a unique gift, which had a hand in the famous Frank Sinatra, who financed the construction of a gigantic amphitheater in the Greek style. Later there were concerts of famous pop stars: Sting, Shakira, Julio Iglesias. In addition, film producers have chosen this place as filming Hollywood blockbusters.
The City as a Hollywood Film Set
Tourists going on vacation and dreamingTo get acquainted with an amazing monument, it will be interesting to learn how the city of artists in the Dominican Republic is called. The complex, which can be bypassed in 20 minutes, is called Altos de Chavon (Altos de Chavon). In the village, talented architects brought to life the best traditions of European architecture of the Middle Ages. Of course, it is impossible not to see the influence of Hollywood, which affected the planning of an unusual complex: every street looks like an ideal decoration for films.
Cultural Center
The cultural center, which has turned into a popular tourist site, is run by Dominic, the daughter of an American rich man, for whom the gift was intended.
Surprised wander the half-empty village during the dayvisitors arriving by sightseeing buses, and only after seven o'clock in the evening, when cozy restaurants are opened, active life begins here. At night the amphitheater turns into a trendy club where only guests of the resort Casa de Campo have fun.
City of artists in the Dominican Republic: description
The architectural ensemble is made of coral limestone, which acquires by the light of the setting rays of the sun, shimmering golden-pink shade.
All streets paved with artificially agedstone converge in the central square of the town. The path from one part of the attraction to another takes no more than 15-20 minutes, and during this time, visitors enjoy the wonderful panorama of the Chavon River and the nearby valley covered with dense forest.
Church of St. Stanislaus
In the center of the square stands the temple, which enteredin the project decorator. The Church of St. Stanislaus, named after the patron saint of Poland, has become no less famous landmark than the city of artists in the Dominican Republic itself. In the 70s of the last century, the Pope of Rome visited her, therefore the name of the temple is a tribute to a person of Polish origin who is revered by Catholics.
This is a working church in which on weekendsMass is held. Lisa-Maria Presley and King of Pop Michael Jackson and other famous couples married in her. And now lovers from different parts of the world come here to hold a memorable solemn ceremony.
Религиозный объект находится на живописной the square, one side of which ends in a steep cliff, from which there are wonderful views of a small river. It is no coincidence that all tourists necessarily take memorable photos against the backdrop of a pretty temple.
A museum that introduces the history
Opposite the church there is an archaeological museum witha collection consisting of everyday objects of the Indians who lived in this territory BC before the appearance of the Spaniards. For three thousand exhibits exhibited in America, France, Italy, you can trace all the stages of the development of civilization.
Entrance to the museum for tourists is free, but you can get into it from 9.00 to 20.00 on all days except Monday.
Art galleries
The City of Artists (Dominicana), whose photo evokes an indispensable desire to visit it, provides artists with spacious apartments so that a person can be creative in silence.
Three art galleries in which are regularly heldinstallations will surprise the collection of works of local artists who have the opportunity to exhibit their work. Each apartment guest who arrived here for inspiration leaves one of his creations as a token of gratitude.
School of Design
Altos de Chavon is also famous for its design school,each year releasing a hundred new talents. It is associated with an American institution of this kind that is recognized internationally. It is here that the creative life of the village is concentrated. The school, which occupies a stone building with a spacious courtyard, is open to all comers. It houses well-equipped rooms, computer classes, a photo studio and a library.
Travelers are happy to show their abilities in the studios of an artificially created village, and are happy to redeem their works.
Amphitheater
In the amphitheater, designed for 5 thousand people,There are both acting classes and various seminars. Here plays are staged, music festivals and concerts with the participation of world stars take place.
The tradition to perform in the building carrying to Ancient Greece was laid by F. Sinatra after he sang at a celebration that was dedicated to the opening of the amphitheater.
Fascinating adventure in the village
Excursions to the city of artists (Dominican Republic)held regularly. The cost of the visit is $ 25, but do not forget to pay the guide, who will tell in detail about all the objects of interest. True, as advised by tourists, it is best to come here not as part of an organized group, but on their own to fully plunge into the magical world of art, enjoy architecture, get into the spirit of freedom, and take part in colorful performances.
City of artists in the Dominican Republic: reviews
As travelers say, this is one of the mostmemorable places with a special atmosphere. A visit to the real Mecca for the elite, since only wealthy foreigners live at a nearby resort, is a must-see for every tourist.
Despite the fact that the village invented is not a traditional settlement of the Dominicans, it is very interesting to look at it. Meeting with the beautiful gives only positive emotions!
