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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, offering a glimpse into Jamaica's past.

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The Dome, also known as Creek Dome, is a historical landmark in Montego Bay, Jamaica, built in 1837. It was erected over a spring that served as a vital source of fresh water for the community. Today, it stands as a monument to the city's history and ingenuity.

A brief summary to The Dome

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

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique architecture and surrounding landscape.
  • Read the informational plaques around the site to learn more about the history of The Dome.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions for a full day of exploration in Montego Bay.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the city center or on the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue), The Dome is accessible by foot. Head east from the Hip Strip, continuing past the roundabout. Turn left onto Dome Street. The Dome will be a short walk down the street. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Buses are available from various points in Montego Bay to the city center. Take a bus heading towards the city center or the Montego Bay Cultural Centre. Ask the driver to drop you off near Dome Street. From there, it is a short walk to The Dome. Bus fare is approximately JMD 300.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Montego Bay. You can find them near hotels, designated taxi stands, or summon one by phone. Inform the driver that you want to go to The Dome on Dome Street. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within Montego Bay typically costs between JMD 4,000 and JMD 2,800 , but negotiating the price beforehand is recommended.

Unlock the Best of The Dome

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Discover more about The Dome

The Dome, situated at the intersection of Creek Street and Dome Street in Montego Bay, is a quaint structure with a rich history. Erected 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. In the days before piped water systems, the Dome played a crucial role in Montego Bay's water supply. Residents would gather at the site to collect water, and a caretaker, known as the "Keeper of the Door," monitored the structure and collected payments. Even after the introduction of a piped water system in 1893, many locals continued to prefer the Dome's water. The discovery of the creek itself is tied to local legend. It is said that two girls, one Spanish and one a slave, were searching for crabs when they found a stone that, when moved, revealed the bubbling sound of water. This led to the unveiling of the creek, initially named El Rio Camarones, or the River of Crabs. The slave girl was freed in honor of the discovery, and the creek was later renamed Bay Creek. Today, The Dome stands as a historical monument, inviting visitors to learn about its past and its significance in Montego Bay's development. It serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the community in a time when access to clean water was a challenge.

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