La Altagracia Province

La Altagracia is a province on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic with access to both ocean and sea, featuring multiple tourist centers along its beaches. The region combines coastal plains with protected natural areas and contains extensive resort complexes alongside smaller towns like Higüey in the interior.

Spanish conquerors established Salvaleón de Higüey in 1506 following the defeat of the Taino chiefdom, and the settlement received its official coat of arms shortly afterward. From this early colonial foundation, the province gradually grew into an economic and religious center of the island.

The Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of Altagracia in Higüey serves as the spiritual center of the province, drawing visitors who come to experience its soaring interior spaces and religious artwork. This place holds deep meaning for local communities who gather here during festivals and religious observances throughout the year.

Punta Cana International Airport is the main entry point to the province and connects it with many cities worldwide. Visitors find tourist facilities concentrated along the coast, while the interior is quieter and best explored by car.

The province is one of the country's major livestock zones, with extensive cattle ranching areas spread across the flat interior landscape. This agricultural side remains largely invisible to tourists who stay mainly at the beaches.

Location: Dominican Republic

Inception: 1961

Capital city: Higüey

Elevation above the sea: 65 m

Shares border with: El Seibo Province, La Romana

GPS coordinates: 18.62000,-68.71000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:25