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The Dome: Montego Bay's Historic Water Source

Discover The Dome in Montego Bay: A historic landmark that once provided fresh water to the city, reflecting Jamaica's rich cultural heritage.

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The Dome in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is a quaint historical landmark built in 1837. Originally designed to protect a natural spring, it once served as a vital source of fresh water for the community. Today, it stands as a monument to the city's past 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 your camera to capture the unique architecture and surrounding landscape.
  • Read the informational plaques around the site to learn about the history and significance of The Dome.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions such as Sam Sharpe Square or the Montego Bay Cultural Centre.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the Hip Strip area, walk west along Gloucester Avenue until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto the main road and continue until you see a sign for Dome Street. Turn left and walk straight; The Dome will be within 10-15 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Gloucester Avenue, take a bus heading towards the city center or the Montego Bay Cultural Centre. Ask the driver to stop at Dome Street. From there, walk a short distance down Dome Street to The Dome. The bus fare is approximately JMD 300.

  • Taxi

    Find a taxi service or taxi stand in Montego Bay and ask to be taken to The Dome on Dome Street. The ride should take 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. Taxi fares in Montego Bay have a base rate of JMD 100, with an additional JMD 450 per kilometer.

Unlock the Best of The Dome

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Discover more about The Dome

Located at the intersection of Creek and Dome Streets, The Dome is a historical structure that offers a glimpse into Montego Bay's past. Built in 1837, this landmark was erected over a natural spring, Bay Creek, which served as a crucial source of drinking water for the town. The Dome's architecture features white wooden louvres and a yellow brick tower, reflecting the style of the era. Before the installation of a piped water system in 1893, residents relied on the creek for their water supply, making The Dome a central point in daily life. A caretaker, known as the "Keeper of the Door," was responsible for managing the water distribution and collecting payments. Interestingly, even after the introduction of piped water, many locals continued to prefer the natural spring. Legend has it that the creek was discovered by two girls, a Spanish girl and a slave, who were searching for crabs. They found a stone, and upon lifting it, they heard the sound of bubbling water, revealing the source of the creek. The creek was initially named El Rio Camarones, or the River of Crabs. The slave girl was freed because of the discovery. Today, The Dome stands as a historical monument, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and appreciate its role in Montego Bay's development.

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