The area known as Puerto Plata was inhabited by the Taíno people for centuries before Christopher Columbus arrived in 1492 and claimed the island for Spain. The city of Puerto Plata as we know it today was founded by Nicolás de Ovando in 1502. However, due to the growing threat from English pirates and privateers, Spain’s King Philip III ordered the city to be abandoned and destroyed in 1605. It lay in ruins for a century before being repopulated in the 18th century, mainly by Canary Islanders who migrated there and cultivated coffee, tobacco, bananas, and sugar cane.

The Dominican Republic, including Puerto Plata, was under Haitian control from 1822 to 1844. After attaining independence, the country briefly returned to Spanish rule in 1861, before finally breaking away again in 1865. Much of the city as you see it today dates back to 1865 and onwards, with many blocks in the center featuring preserved Victorian-era architecture and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Puerto Plata boasts a vibrant culture influenced by Spain, Africa, and the original Taíno, with music and dance permeating daily life, strong family values, and a laid-back approach to life. The official language is Spanish and, away from the tourist areas, some knowledge of the language will be very useful.

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