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The Dome: Montego Bay's Historic Water Source

Explore The Dome in Montego Bay: a historical landmark that once provided fresh water to the community. Discover its unique architecture and rich history.

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The Dome, a quaint historical landmark in Montego Bay, Jamaica, was erected in 1837 over a natural spring. It once served as a vital source of fresh water for the community, with a 'Keeper of the Creek' managing its distribution. Today, it stands as a reminder of the town's history and ingenuity.

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 and to avoid crowds.
  • Read the informational plaques around the site to learn about the history and significance of The Dome.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the city center to explore other nearby attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue), walk west towards the roundabout. Take the second exit onto the main road and continue until you see the sign for Dome Street. Turn left onto Dome Street; The Dome is a 10-15 minute walk. There are sidewalks available, but pedestrian congestion can be a challenge.

  • Public Transport

    From Gloucester Avenue, take a bus heading towards the city center or the Montego Bay Cultural Centre. Ask the driver to drop you off at Dome Street. From there, it is a short walk to The Dome. 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. A short taxi ride in Montego Bay typically costs between $10-$40 USD.

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 significant landmark in Montego Bay's history. Built in 1837, the hexagon-shaped structure with its white wooden louvres and yellow brick tower, was created to protect a natural spring, which was the town's primary source of fresh water. In a time when clean water was scarce, the Dome played a crucial role in the daily lives of Montego Bay residents. A designated 'Keeper of the Creek' oversaw the water distribution and collected payments. Even after a piped water system was introduced in 1893, many locals still preferred the Dome's water. The discovery of the spring itself is tied to local legend. It's said that two girls, a Spanish girl and a slave, discovered the bubbling water source while searching for crabs. Their discovery led to the stream being named 'El Rio Camarones,' or River of Crabs, and the freeing of the slave girl. The creek was later renamed Bay Creek. Today, The Dome stands as a monument to Montego Bay's past, inviting visitors to learn about its history and appreciate its role in the town's development.

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