The Altos de Chavón in the Dominican Republic

Los Altos del Chavón is a community near the Chavón River in the Dominican Republic, situated between Santo Domingo and Punta Cana. It is now one of the most visited locations in our country due to its intriguing origins and the amphitheater it houses. 

The Beginnings of Los Altos del Chavón

Los Altos de Chavón is a premier tourist destination in the Dominican Republic, located specifically in the La Romana region. Although it may appear as an ancient colonial village, it is actually a carefully constructed replica of a Mediterranean village, brought to life in the 1970s.

The inception of Los Altos de Chavón traces back to the vision of Charles Bluhdorn, president of Gulf and Western Industries, a U.S.-based corporation, who was captivated by the allure of the La Romana area during a visit in 1969. Bluhdorn envisioned creating a cultural and tourism center that would echo the architecture and ambiance of Mediterranean villages.

To accomplish this vision, Spanish architect José Antonio Caro and Hollywood set designer Robert Coppa were commissioned. Together, they crafted Los Altos de Chavón using traditional building methods and locally sourced materials.

Construction began in 1976 and was completed in 1982. During this period, local artisans were employed, working with coral stone—a type of limestone found abundantly in the area. The village was erected atop a hill, providing stunning vistas of the Chavón River and surrounding landscape.

Conceived as a cultural and artistic hub, Los Altos de Chavón houses the renowned Altos de Chavón School of Design, affiliated with New York’s prestigious Parsons School of Design. This school is a leading center for arts and design education in the region, attracting international students and promoting the growth of local artistic talent.

What to See at Los Altos del Chavón 

Los Altos de Chavón in the Dominican Republic offer varied destinations and activities that thousands of visitors relish each year:

• Stroll Through the Village: The primary allure of Los Altos de Chavón lies in its architecture and cobbled streets. Wander through the village and marvel at the details of the constructions, such as the Church of St. Stanislaus, a replica of a medieval church, and the Plaza of the Artists.

• Visit the School of Design: Altos de Chavón hosts the esteemed School of Design, affiliated with New York’s Parsons School of Design. Visitors can explore the campus and discover the facilities where students hone their artistic skills.

• Explore Shops and Galleries: The village is home to a diverse array of shops and art galleries offering crafts, jewelry, paintings, and other unique items. It's an ideal spot to acquire souvenirs and appreciate local artistry.

• Enjoy the Amphitheater: Altos de Chavón boasts an open-air amphitheater, the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater, which has hosted various concerts and high-profile events.

• Savor Panoramic Views: Positioned on a hilltop, the location of Los Altos de Chavón offers spectacular panoramic views of the Chavón River and its surroundings. 

• Indulge in Local Cuisine: At Altos de Chavón, you will find restaurants serving both Dominican and international dishes. Delight in a typical meal while embracing the village atmosphere.

• Discover the Chavón River: For adventure seekers, a boat ride on the Chavón River provides an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area and gain a different perspective on Los Altos de Chavón.

• Visit the Archaeological Museum: At Los Altos de Chavón, you can also explore a Regional Archaeological Museum that offers insights into Dominican history and culture. The museum features a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts alongside exhibits depicting the lifestyle of the island's ancient cultures.

The Altos del Chavón Amphitheater

The Altos de Chavón Amphitheater stands out as one of this destination’s prime attractions in the Dominican Republic. It is a symbolic venue that has welcomed numerous high-profile concerts and events. 

• Design and Location: Designed by Italian architect Roberto Coppa, the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater was constructed in 1982. Situated atop a hill with views of the Chavón River, it accommodates over 5,000 spectators. The amphitheater’s design draws inspiration from ancient Roman amphitheaters, featuring a blend of coral stone and impressive architectural details.

• Concerts and Events: The Altos de Chavón Amphitheater has hosted performances by artists from various musical genres, ranging from pop and rock to Latin and classical music. Notable artists who have graced the stage include Frank Sinatra, Elton John, Andrea Bocelli, Julio Iglesias, Sting, Marc Anthony, and Alejandro Sanz, among others. It has also been the venue for music festivals and cultural events both locally and internationally.

• Ambient and Acoustics: The intimate ambiance and exceptional acoustics are among the most celebrated features of the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater. Its design offers unimpeded views of the stage from any seat, while the synergy of architecture and surrounding nature creates a mesmerizing setting for enjoying performances.

• Unique Experience: Attending a concert at the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater is a singular experience. The fusion of architectural beauty and panoramic vistas establishes an extraordinary atmosphere. 

• Special Events: Beyond concerts, the Altos de Chavón Amphitheater has hosted various special events, including weddings, graduation ceremonies, and theatrical performances. Its versatile space adapts to a variety of occasions and celebrations.

Noval Properties, Your Property in the Dominican Republic

At Noval Properties, we develop real estate investments in prime locations across the Dominican Republic, including Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Samaná. Alongside these exceptional settings, our commitment centers on creating high-quality residences where one can enjoy the Caribbean lifestyle.