Altos De Chavón | La Romana

Altos de Chavón is a picturesque replica Mediterranean village located in the La Romana region of the Dominican Republic, overlooking the Chavón River. This charming cultural and artistic community was designed to evoke the beauty and spirit of a 16th-century Mediterranean village and serves as a hub for art, culture, and tourism in the Dominican Republic.

Overview:

• Location: Altos de Chavón is situated in La Romana, specifically within the Casa de Campo Resort, approximately 2 hours from Santo Domingo.
• Established: It was built in the early 1980s by American architect Roberto Coppa and renowned Italian designer Claudio Michel. It was designed to be an artistic community and to showcase the beauty of Mediterranean architecture.
• Purpose: Altos de Chavón was originally conceived as a cultural village, and it continues to host cultural events, art exhibitions, and performances, making it a focal point for the arts in the Dominican Republic.

Key Features:

1. Architectural Beauty:

• Altos de Chavón is renowned for its stunning architecture, characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed stone buildings, and Mediterranean-style villas.
• The village's design evokes the charm of the Italian Renaissance, with elements like arched doorways, terracotta tiles, and flower-filled balconies, creating a truly romantic atmosphere.
• The village is nestled on a cliff overlooking the Chavón River, providing spectacular views of the surrounding natural landscape.

2. Cultural and Artistic Hub:

• Altos de Chavón has become an important center for the arts, housing galleries, shops, and workshops that showcase the works of local and international artists.
• The Altos de Chavón School of Design, part of the Parsons School of Design, is a prestigious institution located in the village. It offers programs in graphic design, fashion, and industrial design and has earned a reputation for producing talented graduates in the creative fields.
• The village hosts art exhibitions, craft fairs, and performances, often focusing on Dominican culture and international art.

3. Altos de Chavón Amphitheater:

• A major cultural landmark within the village is the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater, an outdoor theater modeled after ancient Roman architecture. It has a capacity of around 5,000 people and is renowned for its acoustics and stunning location with views over the Chavón River.
• The amphitheater has hosted many world-class performances by prominent musicians, including Marc Anthony, Shakira, and Frank Sinatra. It remains a major venue for concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural festivals.

4. Art Galleries and Workshops:

• Altos de Chavón is home to several art galleries and workshops where visitors can view and purchase fine art and handcrafted items. These spaces showcase a range of media, from paintings to ceramics, jewelry, and handmade crafts.
• Many of the artists who live in or visit the village work directly with the public, offering opportunities to observe their techniques and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces.

Attractions and Activities:

Altos de Chavón School of Design:

• The Altos de Chavón School of Design is a major educational institution for aspiring designers. While not open to the public for formal classes, the school occasionally holds exhibitions of student work, offering a glimpse into the future of Dominican design.
• The school also features an art gallery showcasing works by both students and professional artists. This adds to the vibrant artistic atmosphere of the village.

Shopping:

• The cobblestone streets of Altos de Chavón are lined with charming boutiques and shops, offering a variety of locally made crafts, jewelry, clothing, and artwork. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs or high-quality pieces from Dominican artisans.

Dining:

• Altos de Chavón features several restaurants and cafes, many with outdoor terraces overlooking the river or the village square. These establishments offer a mix of Dominican and international cuisine, with options for casual meals or fine dining.
• Some popular options include La Cantina, which serves Italian-inspired dishes, and The Steakhouse, offering high-quality meats and stunning views of the Chavón River.

Photography and Scenic Views:

• One of the most popular activities in Altos de Chavón is simply wandering through its streets, capturing the beautiful architecture, colorful flower-lined walls, and scenic views of the Chavón River. The village is a perfect spot for photographers and anyone interested in experiencing the charm of traditional Mediterranean design.

Nearby Attractions:

Casa de Campo:

• Altos de Chavón is part of the Casa de Campo Resort, one of the most luxurious resorts in the Dominican Republic. Casa de Campo offers a variety of amenities including golf courses, beaches, water sports, and a marina.
• The resort’s Teeth of the Dog Golf Course, designed by Pete Dye, is one of the top golf courses in the Caribbean.

Chavón River:

• The Chavón River is a scenic river that winds through the region, offering opportunities for boat rides and kayaking. The river is known for its dramatic cliffs and lush landscape, adding to the natural beauty surrounding Altos de Chavón.

La Romana:

• The nearby town of La Romana offers additional attractions such as the Cueva de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders), a cave system with ancient Taino petroglyphs, and the Casa de Campo Marina, a popular area for boating and dining.

Visitor Information:

• Access: Altos de Chavón is located within the Casa de Campo Resort and is open to both visitors staying at the resort and those coming from outside. It’s a popular day-trip destination for tourists staying in La Romana or Santo Domingo.
• Entrance Fees: While the village is free to enter, some activities, such as visits to the amphitheater, art galleries, or certain events, may have associated fees.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the village and surrounding attractions.

Conclusion:

Altos de Chavón is a vibrant, culturally rich destination in the Dominican Republic that offers a unique blend of art, history, and scenic beauty. Its charming Mediterranean-style architecture, picturesque views, and cultural offerings make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the La Romana region. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys stunning landscapes, Altos de Chavón is a place that provides something for everyone.