Puerto Plata temporarily closes Paseo Doña Blanca for restoration work

The Puerto Plata City Council has temporarily closed the Paseo Doña Blanca, one of the city’s most photographed tourist attractions, to carry out restoration and maintenance work aimed at preserving the historic site.

The closure will remain in effect from July 20 through August 5, 2026, during which access to the colorful pedestrian walkway will be restricted while crews complete painting, repairs, and general maintenance.

In a statement, the city government said the temporary closure is part of ongoing efforts to beautify and protect Puerto Plata’s historic and cultural landmarks, asking residents, tour guides, tour operators, and visitors for their understanding during the project.

The restoration comes after residents and local media raised concerns about the deterioration of the attraction, particularly the statue of Doña Blanca Franceschini de Rainieri, who, together with her husband Isidoro Rainieri, owned the former Hospedaje del Comercio, later renamed Hotel Europa, one of the Dominican Republic’s earliest hotels.

City officials said the work is intended to preserve the charm of the iconic attraction and ensure that Puerto Plata—known as the “Bride of the Atlantic”—continues to offer visitors a well-maintained historic destination.