Altos de Chavón: The Mediterranean Village in the Caribbean
Perched high above the Chavón River in Casa de Campo, a stunning 16th-century Mediterranean village captures the imagination of all who visit. With its cobblestone streets, coral-stone buildings, and breathtaking views, Altos de Chavón is undeniably the cultural heart of the resort. But this enchanting village holds a fascinating secret: it’s not centuries old. In fact, its story is a modern marvel of vision and artistry, a key chapter in what is Casa de Campo. This guide will unveil the incredible Altos de Chavón history and show you everything this magical place has to offer.
A Hollywood Dream: The Surprising History of Altos de Chavón
The story of Altos de Chavón begins in 1976. When a mountain of stone was blasted to build a new road, Casa de Campo’s founder, Charles Bluhdorn, saw an opportunity. As the owner of Paramount Pictures, he envisioned creating not just an attraction, but an immersive Mediterranean village in the Caribbean.To bring this dream to life, he hired a very special talent: the Italian Roberto Coppa, a designer and cinematographer for Paramount Pictures. This is the key to understanding the village’s unique magic. It wasn’t built as a historical replica but as a permanent, functional movie set. Every stone was hand-cut and laid by local artisans to create what is now a world-renowned artists village in the Dominican Republic, serving as one of the top Casa de Campo attractions.
What to Do in Altos de Chavón: A Guide to Its Treasures
Walking through Altos de Chavón feels like stepping back in time. It’s a living, breathing village with a wealth of experiences, making it one of the best things to do in La Romana. Here’s what you can’t miss:
- St. Stanislaus Church: Consecrated in 1979 in honor of Pope John Paul II, the St. Stanislaus Church in Casa de Campo is the village’s centerpiece. Its romantic stone facade and charming square make it a popular spot for weddings and quiet reflection.
- The Amphitheater: A Stage for Legends: The magnificent 5,000-seat Grecian-style Altos de Chavón amphitheater is an architectural masterpiece. It was famously inaugurated on August 20, 1982, by the one and only Frank Sinatra in Casa de Campo. Since then, its stage has hosted a constellation of global superstars, from Sting and Elton John to Andrea Bocelli and Juan Luis Guerra.
- An Artists’ Hub: The village is a vibrant center for creativity. It’s home to the prestigious Altos de Chavón School of Design, which has a long-standing affiliation with New York’s Parsons School of Design. You can explore numerous Casa de Campo art galleries showcasing local and international talent, and watch artisans at work in their studios.
- Dining and Shopping: The village is dotted with charming boutiques and a variety of Altos de Chavón restaurants. You can enjoy a romantic Italian dinner at La Piazzetta or a casual meal at one of the many cafes, all while soaking in the historic ambiance.
A Living Village: The Experience Today
Today, Altos de Chavón is more than the sum of its parts. It’s a place to wander without a plan, to discover hidden courtyards, to enjoy a coffee while overlooking the stunning river canyon, and to feel the artistic energy that permeates the air. It provides the perfect cultural counterpoint to the resort’s world-class sports and beach activities.
The best way to truly appreciate this remarkable place is by having the time and freedom to explore it at your own pace, which is one of the great privileges of staying within the Casa de Campo resort.
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