The Colonial Zone’s remodelling process, which includes the replacement of its centuries-old streets, has unearthed important archaeological finds dating back to the 16th century.

(TRAVPR.COM) UK - May 6th, 2015 - The Colonial Zone’s remodelling process, which includes the replacement of its centuries-old streets, has unearthed important archaeological finds dating back to the 16th century. The country’s Ministry of Tourism launched the reconstruction process of the Zone’s streets, under the responsibility of Spanish architect Rafael Moneo.

The most important findings are:

·         The city’s first aqueduct, considered to be the most important work of urban engineering in

          the country during the 16^th century.

·         Discovery of the city’s partial 16^th century sewer system.

·         Part of the original city wall, on “Arzobispo Meriño” Street, and another wall on “Isabel La

          Catolica” Street, two of the Colonial Zone’s oldest streets.

The replacement of the historic centre of Santo Domingo, a project sponsored by the country’s Ministry of Tourism through the Tourism Development Programme of the Colonial Zone, will boost tourist and commercial-related activities in this important section of the city as well as improve the quality of life of its residents.

Architect Maribel Villalona, ​​general coordinator of the Tourism Development Program, recently explained that in the next few years the First City of the Americas will become one of the most beautiful, dynamic and safest in the Caribbean and these findings will add value to the visits of national and international visitors to the Zone. “The discoveries are added assets to a city that is revaluating its history.”  “All places where important archaeological discoveries have been made will be distinguished with special plaques that will be placed in the nearest wall,” she said.

PUBLIC EXHIBITS

The project will include depicting these findings through drawings, videos, photographs and scientific research. Once the project is completed there will be an exhibit at the Zone’s “Museo de las Casas Reales.” Some of the pieces unearthed could even be displayed on local streets.

The archaeological aspects and the replacement of Zone streets, as well as its security and well-being of its citizens, are key in promoting tourism in the Colonial Zone. Architect Maribel Villalona, along with other program developers, expect the project will conclude in June 2015.

WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic, and is situated along the Caribbean Sea. It was the first European settlement in the Americas, and received its name to honour Domenico Colombo, the father of Christopher Columbus. Founded by Bartholomew Columbus in 1496, on the eastern bank of the Ozama River, the city was transferred to the west bank of the river on the orders of Nicolas de Ovando.

The Colonial City was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1990. The city’s unique collection of 16^th century colonial buildings faithfully represents the architecture of the period. The city became the platform whereby the Spanish Crown extended its domain throughout the Americas. Also found in the Zone: the first Cathedral of the Americas; the Alcazar, the official residence of Diego Columbus, Viceroy of the Indies, and son of Christopher Columbus; the San Francisco Monastery, the first monastery in the Americas; the “Casas Reales” Museum, which was once the former Palace of the Governor General; Columbus Square, one of the city’s oldest; the Ozama Fortress, the oldest in the Americas, and the Convent of the Order of the Dominicos, the first convent in the Americas.

For further information on the destination please contact: Esther Smith: pr.uk@godominicanrepublic.com Tel/fax: 01962 711239 – Mobile: 07768901197 - Website:  www.godominicanrepublic.com – high res photographs – www.drsmartlibrary.com  You can join us on Facebook and Twitter on: http://www.facebook.com/godominicanrepublic - http://twitter.com/dominicanrep_UK

About Dominican Republic: Rich in history, the Dominican Republic’s first tourist was Christopher Columbus in 1492. Since then, it has developed into a diverse and luxurious destination offering both Dominican Republic and European flavours to more than 220,000 British visitors each year.  A leader in eco-tourism, the Dominican Republic created the world’s first Whale Sanctuary and has established protection zones for more than 20 percent of its land and coastal areas. The country boasts some of the world’s best golf courses and beaches, the largest marinas in the Caribbean and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families. Visit the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism’s official Web site at: www.godominicanrepublic.com or call +44 (0)20 7242 7778

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