The charming St. Stanislaus Catholic Church dominates the plaza of Altos de Chavón Artists Village; a vibrant cultural community perched above the magnificent beauty of the Chavón River. Winding cobblestone paths, hand-carved coral stone fountains and sculpted terra cotta buildings create a magical effect in this amazing little village.
Apparently, Altos de Chavón appeared here not through elemental magic, but rather thanks to some 'financial' wizardry. For it was the late Charles Bluhdorn*, then the immensely wealthy president of Gulf & Western Corporation* (the once massive US conglomerate that owned Paramount Pictures amongst many other companies) that had this Mediterranean village built as a monumentally extravagant 'birthday present' for his daughter.
This architectural magic was constructed using traditional skills during the latter 1970's by local masons and builders under the direction of Italian film set designer Roberto Copa. Copa had, naturally, previously undertaken work for Paramount Pictures, and evidently impressed Bluhdorn with his creative skills. It is perhaps likely that these 'film-studio' connections later led to Altos de Chavón becoming the setting for certain scenes in the movie that also featured Marlon Brando's last 'significant' role - Apocalypse Now.
Altos de Chavón has also developed into a hugely popular "living museum and artists' colony" providing a beautiful and inspirational setting for Dominican based artists to live, study and work. The village hosts three major art galleries, featuring Dominican Republic paintings as well as many works by European and American artists. Performing arts are showcased in the village's astounding 5,000-seat amphitheater, inaugurated in 1982 by Frank Sinatra and is still attracting big name performers such as The Pet Boys, Julio Iglesias, and many others.
The Regional Museum of Archaeology can also be found here; a small but wonderful display of the island's rich pre-Columbian heritage. The Art Gallery features contemporary art exhibitions, mostly created by students at the Altos De Chavon School of Art and Design.
All in all, Altos de Chavón is an amazing venue for any wedding, reception, or adventurous excursion with the family. A variety of imaculent architecture, serene beauty, and a sense of culture unlike anywhere in the world, I highly encourage anyone visiting the Dominican Republic, to add this magical little village to the list.
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Discover the beauty and romance of this quaint, artistic village in the Dominican Republic.
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