Once a symbol of opulence, Villa Caracola, an oceanfront estate allegedly tied to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, now stands in ruins in the exclusive Cap Cana resort in the Dominican Republic, Diario Libre reports. The multimillion-dollar property, located near Playa Juanillo, has been left to decay following its seizure by US authorities over alleged connections to corruption and drug trafficking networks.
Spanning over 3,000 square meters of construction on a 6,000-square-meter lot, the mansion was originally purchased for approximately US$13 million and later resold for US$18 million. The transaction involved Venezuelan businessman Samark José López Bello, designated by the U.S. Treasury Department as a frontman for former Venezuelan Vice President Tareck El Aissami and a key figure managing assets linked to Maduro.
Designed by the prestigious architectural firm Campagna Ricart & Associates, known for high-end developments like the new St. Regis Cap Cana, the villa was part of the “Fundador Golf” residential series, reserved for early investors in the luxury enclave. Eventually, the property was transferred back to the developers as a settlement for outstanding debts.
The estate once boasted nine private suites with en-suite bathrooms and terraces, ten additional restrooms, a gourmet kitchen, an infinity pool, helipad, private spa, gym, gazebo, semi-covered bar, tropical gardens, and direct access to the Cap Cana marina, restaurants, church, and round-the-clock security.
In its update, Diario Libre says that the once-sparkling pool and jacuzzi sit empty and rust-stained, ceilings leak, windows are shattered, and overgrown vegetation creeps across the facade. Drone footage reveals the full extent of the neglect, capturing a haunting aerial view of what was once one of Cap Cana’s most lavish homes.
Likewise, reports have revealed that small jets are in abandon at Dominican airports after these were confiscated because of their ties with the President of Venezuela.
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Diario Libre
Diario Libre
19 August 2025