Founded in 1502 by order of Christopher Columbus, the name of the city literally translates to port of silver, aptly chosen for the silvery hues of its natural harbor.
The fortress of San Felipe still keeps a silent vigil today. Started in 1541, the fort was completed in 1577. An awesome structure, it was intended to defend Puerto Plata against intruders. Exploring the old fort recreates the spirit of Puerto Plata's colonial past, rich in pirate legends and the romance of conquest.
Located over one hour from Playa Dorada is La Isabela, the first European settlement in the New World where Christopher Columbus and his Spanish crew celebrated the first Catholic Mass in America, thanking God for guiding them to a safe place.
3 hours away is Santo Domingo, the first city of the New World and the nation's capital, offering important historical attractions and monuments.
We can't live in the past, but it's a nice place to visit and Puerto Plata's turn-of-the-century charm is evident in its Victorian architecture.
Many of its gracious gingerbread homes date back to the republican period, whereas the gazebo in Puerto Plata's central park square was recreated from original sketches.
Concerts in the park, young ladies in European lace enjoying seafront carriage rides, lazy sunsets that linger forever, a mountain that seems to kiss the sea... all these images of Puerto Plata's past at a time when it was known as "a town of 30 coaches", are easily recalled.
Brilliant colors for the spirit
Today, Mt. Isabel de Torres still towers over the town. Reaching 2,565 feet above sea level, the mountain is crowned by the sculpted Christ figure, similar to that atop Rio de Janeiro.
A lovely botanical garden is a feast for the eyes as are the sweeping panoramic views of Puerto Plata and the northern coastline.
The town of Puerto Plata bustles with interesting shops, restaurants, bars, patio cafes, and the Amber Museum. Here, you'll find a wonderful display of amber in all its colors. This valuable stone, shaped from the fossilized resin of trees, tells a story millions of years old!
With its perfect blend of cultures, architecture, flavors and rhythms, Playa Dorada and its surroundings provide the ideal mix for a unique vacation experience.
One thing appears certain. Playa Dorada is a jewel of many facets. No longer had a best kept secret, it has evolved into one of the truly great holiday destinations ... versatile, attractive and very accessible!
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Transportation | Things to do in Playa Dorada | Golf courses | About Puerto Plata
