Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic)

Puerto Plata is the largest city on the republic's north coast. Cool breezes blowing in from the Atlantic ensure that a pleasant climate dominates here.

Puerto Plata is the largest city on the republic's north coast. Cool breezes blowing in from the Atlantic ensure that a pleasant climate dominates here.
The 'silver harbour' was established at the foot of the local mountain, Pico Isabel de Torres, around the end of the 15th century. The town was, however, abandoned only shortly afterwards due to frequent pirate attacks and was then not rebuilt until the 18th century. Many wooden houses typical of the colonial style date back to this time and are primarily to be found between the centre and the fort site of Fortaleza San Felipe. The fort was erected in the 16th century and today accommodates a military and local history museum. A visit to the amber museum is especially recommended as exhibits that are unique throughout the world, such as a lizard encased in amber, have been preserved here.
A few steps away lies the well-maintained Parque Central, the Pavillon Glorieta Sicilian and San Felipe Church. Those desiring a shopping trip for souvenirs should pay a visit to the streets Calle Duarte and Bellér or the large Brugal rum factory. Following a tour through the site, visitors are able to sample rums of different styles and quality and will be offered a chance to purchase them.
Although the majority of the people live in a most simple manner, they do not fail to express a deep inner happiness and balance. As is the case for many island inhabitants throughout the world, the population has become accustomed to foreigners in the past centuries and greet others with the utmost politeness and friendliness. Dancing is frequent and rife, with modern art also nurtured here, particularly the colourful Naive paintings that are to be seen on the brightly painted houses, for example.