Nestled on the cliffs of the Chavón River in the Dominican Republic, Altos de Chavón paints a picture of a 16th-century Mediterranean village. With its cobbled streets, coral stone fountains, and breathtaking views, this village offers a unique blend of history, cuisine, accommodations, and activities.
History:
Altos de Chavón wasn’t built in the 16th century, but in the 1970s. Commissioned by Charles Bludhorn, president of Gulf+Western, it was designed by the Italian architect Roberto Copa. Its creation was to honor Bludhorn’s daughter, Dominique. Today, it stands as a cultural hub showcasing the rich history and artistry of the Dominican Republic.
Restaurants:
- La Piazzetta: Offering an authentic Italian dining experience, La Piazzetta is renowned for its homemade pasta and stone-fired pizza. Dine al fresco in the main square and enjoy the village ambiance.
- Fresh Fresh Café: This eatery, perfect for health enthusiasts, offers smoothies, salads, and light bites, all with a beautiful river view.
- El Sombrero: Here, you can dive into traditional Dominican cuisine like “mofongo” and “sancocho” while overlooking the river.
Lodging:
For those looking to prolong their stay, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas is the go-to place. This luxury resort provides everything from golf courses and spa services to beach clubs and horseback riding. Lodging here gives visitors easy access to Altos de Chavón and the myriad of activities it offers.
Activities:
- The Amphitheater: This impressive 5,000-seat venue has welcomed the likes of Frank Sinatra and Carlos Santana. Check out the event calendar to catch a show during your visit.
- St. Stanislaus Church: Though relatively modern, this church exudes old-world charm and is a favorite spot for weddings.
- Regional Museum of Archaeology: Dive deep into the pre-Columbian history of the region and discover the artifacts of the indigenous Taíno people.
- The School of Design: Affiliated with the Parsons School of Design in New York, this institution offers workshops in fashion, graphic design, and more. Visitors can sometimes get a glimpse of the students’ works.
- Art Studios: Wander around and watch local artists at work, from pottery to weaving.
Celebrity Appearances:
Altos de Chavón, being a cultural and architectural marvel in the Dominican Republic, has attracted many famous personalities over the years. The village’s amphitheater, which has hosted numerous concerts, events, and performances, is particularly a magnet for celebrities. Some of the famous people who have visited or performed at Altos de Chavón include:
- Frank Sinatra: The legendary singer performed at the amphitheater’s inauguration in 1982, marking it as a significant entertainment venue in the Caribbean.
- Carlos Santana: This iconic guitarist and his band have graced the stage of Altos de Chavón, treating audiences to his signature sound.
- The Pet Shop Boys: The renowned British duo has performed at this unique venue.
- Gloria Estefan: The Cuban-American singer has sung her hits at the Altos de Chavón amphitheater.
- Jennifer Lopez: The superstar has made appearances here, both in performances and personal visits.
- Marc Anthony: Known for his salsa tunes and ballads, Marc Anthony has performed at the venue multiple times.
- Heart: The rock band led by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson has rocked the Altos de Chavón stage.
Additionally, due to its picturesque setting and architectural beauty, Altos de Chavón has attracted many celebrities, film crews, and photographers for shoots and personal vacations. Over the years, its reputation as a must-visit spot in the Caribbean has only grown, ensuring that its list of celebrity visitors will continue to expand.
Popular Wedding Destination:
Altos de Chavón is a popular wedding destination not just for its picturesque setting but also for the exclusivity it offers. The St. Stanislaus Church in the heart of the village and the breathtaking views of the Chavón River make it an ideal backdrop for a romantic ceremony. Over the years, several celebrities have chosen this enchanting location for their nuptials:
- Michael Joseph Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley: One of the most famous weddings to have taken place at Altos de Chavón was between the “King of Pop” Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley in 1994. Though their union was short-lived, the wedding itself drew significant media attention.
- Caroline Wozniacki and David Lee: The former world No.1 tennis player, Caroline Wozniacki, tied the knot with former NBA All-Star David Lee at Altos de Chavón in 2019. The event was a lavish affair attended by a slew of sports personalities.
- Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin: Although not officially confirmed, there were reports suggesting that the couple had a private ceremony in this beautiful village.
Given its allure, it wouldn’t be surprising if more celebrities in the future choose Altos de Chavón for their special day.
Whether you’re an avid history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a unique experience, Altos de Chavón promises a journey back in time without leaving the modern comforts behind. So, the next time you’re in the Dominican Republic, make sure to walk the streets of this enchanting village and immerse yourself in its magic.
-S&E
