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The Dome: A Historical Spring in Montego Bay

Discover The Dome in Montego Bay: a historical landmark that once provided fresh water to the city, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.

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The Dome, also known as Creek Dome, is a historical landmark in Montego Bay built in 1837. It once served as a vital source of fresh drinking water for the community, erected over a natural spring. Today, it stands as a monument to the city's past.

A brief summary to The Dome

  • F3CJ+MC5, Dome St, Montego Bay, JM

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Engage with local vendors nearby for a taste of authentic Jamaican cuisine.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as the area can get quite sunny and hot.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're staying in the Hip Strip area, head west along Gloucester Avenue. Continue until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto the main road, continuing until you see a sign for Dome Street. Turn left onto Dome Street; The Dome should be within a 10-15 minute walk.

  • Public Transport

    From Gloucester Avenue, head to the nearest bus stop. Look for a bus heading towards the city center or the Montego Bay Cultural Centre. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at Dome Street. The bus ride will take approximately 10 minutes. Bus fare is around JMD 300. Walk a short distance down Dome Street to find The Dome.

  • Taxi

    Find a local taxi service or a designated taxi stand in Montego Bay. Inform the driver that you want to go to The Dome on Dome Street. The ride should take around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Confirm the fare before you start your journey. Taxi fares vary, so negotiate a price before starting your trip. Expect to pay between $10-$40 (€9-€37) for a short trip within the local area.

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Discover more about The Dome

The Dome, situated on Dome Street in Montego Bay, is a quaint structure with a rich history. Built in 1837, it was designed to protect the source of a natural spring, Bay Creek, which provided fresh drinking water to the town. The building features a yellow brick tower and white wooden louvres. According to local legend, the spring was discovered by two young girls, one Spanish and one a slave, who were searching for crabs. They found a stone, and upon moving it, heard the sound of bubbling water, revealing the creek. The townspeople were so grateful that they freed the slave girl and named the creek 'El Rio Camarones,' or River of Crabs. Later, the creek was renamed Bay Creek. For many years, The Dome served as Montego Bay's primary source of drinking water. A caretaker, known as the 'Keeper of the Door,' monitored the structure and collected payments from those who drew water. Even after a piped water system was installed in 1893, many locals continued to prefer the water from The Dome. Today, The Dome stands as a historical monument, attracting visitors interested in learning about Montego Bay's heritage.

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