Ruins, half-demolished beautiful churches, cathedrals of the XIII or XV century, multicolored stained glass windows, and cobbled streets ... History at every turn… Every tourist coming to altos de Chavon thinks so.

If some curious traveler decides to go around to the back of the ruins, he comes to the hall of a modern bar. Behind old limestone houses, along narrow streets, are located shops, craft workshops, galleries, and restaurants. There are two worlds in one. One is real, and the other is fictional ... Thought the first one appeared with the help of the second one. 

It seems that these buildings are established several centuries ago. But, in fact, just 40 years. This beautiful place was firstly noticed by Charles Blyudorn, owner of “Paramount Pictures” and “Gulf + Western”.

Visiting one of Gulf + Western’s sugarcane plantations, Charles found this place very nice. And he decided to move to the Dominican Republic. He created a small ancient town to attract tourists and show them local traditions and culture.

Walking along ancient buildings partly surrounded by nature, you get the feeling that several centuries ago divine services took place in a church. And comedies and tragedies were showing in a large amphitheater.

It actually was, but not so long ago. The Church of St. Stanislav is a highlight of altos de Chavon. There is worship. In this fictional place, real families are creating. And weddings are playing. A bride and groom look amazing in the background of ancient ruins. Not only ordinary inhabitants of the Dominican Republic bring together in marriage in this church, but the members of royal families.

The "Ancient Greek" amphitheater is also open. If you are lucky, you can attend a concert or an informative lecture. Frank Sinatra himself performed at the opening of the amphitheater.