During the visit, which included the Santo Tomás de Jánico Fortress and the Reynaldo Luna Pichardo Regional Anthropological Museum, the official highlighted that this initiative, which has been in the planning and study phase for years, is beginning to materialize.
“The Route of the Encounter seeks to become an emblematic route that awakens the interest of both national and international visitors. In its first stage, with an estimated investment of one billion pesos, it will connect the historical journey of the conquistadors from La Isabela Histórica to the municipality of Jánico”, he expressed.
He also assured that the project will strengthen tourism, one of the main drivers of the Dominican economy, and will promote national history and its roots.
For its execution, it was reported that joint work has been articulated between various State institutions, including the ministries of Culture, Tourism and Environment, under the coordination of the Ministry of the Presidency.
Paliza also highlighted the importance of integrating the private sector and local communities in the development of the initiative, encouraging the participation of entrepreneurs, owners of restaurants, hostels and other services in areas such as El Mamey, Esperanza and Jánico.
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He added that this project is inspired by international models such as the Camino de Santiago, in Spain, recognized for its economic and tourist impact, and stated that the country seeks to generate a similar experience, adapted to its history and cultural richness.
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Technical advances and project execution
On his side, the Vice Minister of Investment Projects of the Ministry of the Presidency and head of the Executing Unit of the Route of the Encounter, Camel Curi, mentioned that technical surveys are currently being carried out to identify the points of greatest value within the route.
“We are assessing the terrain, its current state, and development potential, including the necessary equipment to offer a comprehensive experience to visitors,” he explained.
He advanced that the initial works could begin in the coming weeks, after completing the legal, technical and planning processes. The first stage contemplates the development of basic infrastructure, connectivity between key points and the enhancement of historical spaces.
Whereas, the director of the National Directorate of National Heritage, Juan Mubarak, stated that the function of his institution is to guarantee the historical rigor of this project.
“We are validating the route based on relevant historical facts, such as the journey made by Christopher Columbus and his team during the first days of exploration on the island, to ensure that this route has an authentic and valuable basis,” he said.
