Minister of Tourism David Collado visited the “Emerald Province” of Monte Plata on 24 March 2026 to inaugurate restoration works at two of the country’s most significant religious sites. Collado also announced urban renewal projects for the area for RD$118 million. The projects are part of a strategic push to bolster religious and cultural tourism in the region, located approximately 60 kilometers from Santo Domingo.
The Ministry focused heavily on the province’s deep-rooted pilgrimage traditions, specifically targeting two iconic temples:
Santuario Santo Cristo de los Milagros (Bayaguana): As a primary pilgrimage center with over 500 years of history, this site received a RD$81,596,311 intervention managed by the Executing Committee of Infrastructure in Tourist Zones (CEIZTUR).
Security & infrastructure: The project included the construction of a 1,266-linear-meter perimeter fence designed to match the existing architecture, 200 meters of sidewalks, and 500 meters of concrete channeling for stormwater drainage.
General refurbishment: Restoration covered repairs to doors, windows, and flooring, maintenance of religious sculptures, and enhanced landscaping.
Santuario Nuestra Señora del Agua Santa (Boyá): Located in the municipal district of Boyá, this historic temple underwent a restoration valued at RD$8,886,184.
Scope of work: The intervention included cleaning, painting, and general repairs to gates and windows. Flooring was upgraded with cobblestones and stamped concrete, and the perimeter fence and gardens were fully rehabilitated.
Urban renewal in Monte Plata municipality
In the provincial capital of Monte Plata, Minister Collado broke ground on the remodeling of the Plaza de la Municipalidad. This RD$27,493,180 project aims to modernize the local civic space with several key upgrades. The plan is to rebuild sidewalks and install universal access ramps. A perimeter fence for the children’s playground and gardens will be installed. Likewise, the central gazebo (glorieta) will be renovated and there will be new paving, and updated lighting systems.
During the events, Minister Collado emphasized that “the hour has arrived for Monte Plata,” highlighting the province’s massive potential for ecotourism due to its natural resources and proximity to the National District. He noted that these specific investments in religious infrastructure provide a necessary boost to the local economy by attracting both domestic and international visitors interested in the Dominican Republic’s colonial and spiritual heritage.
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Monte Plata church
Wikipedia
31 March 2026