Pedernales (English: "Flints") is a city in and the seat of government of Pedernales Province, Dominican Republic. The population was 27,955 at the 2015 census. The port of entry for the border crossing into Haiti is located across the Pedernales River from the Haitian town of Anse-à-Pitres. Pedernales also contains several scientific features such as two national parks and an adjoining lake, forming the first biosphere reserve in the country.
Pedernales, DR
Welcome sign
About[]
Pedernales is positioned in the far southern part of the nation, approximately 300 kilometers (185 miles) from Las Américas International Airport near Santo Domingo. The province shares a border with Haiti and is bordered by the Caribbean Sea. It is recognized as the least populated area within the Dominican Republic.
Characterized by a tropical climate, the Pedernales region is home to numerous beautiful beaches that remain in pristine natural conditions, with Cabo Rojo Beach and Playa Blanca being particularly notable. The area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including several endemic species such as iguanas and various birds. With its mangroves, lagoons, and forests, the Pedernales region is a destination worthy of exploration. The local economy primarily relies on fishing, making it one of the leading regions in this sector within the country, alongside livestock farming, particularly cattle, and agriculture, with a focus on coffee production.
History[]
Prior to European conquest, several indigenous groups inhabited the coastal areas and the Pedernales River. However, for the majority of its history, the region has been sparsely populated due to its arid climate.
During his second voyage to the Americas, Christopher Columbus encountered and named various parts of the island, including Beata and Alto Velo, which are now included in the province of Pedernales. Up until the 20th century (1900s), the only inhabitants of the area were Haitians, and many locations still bear French names. During the Dominican-Haitian War (1844-1856), Haitian troops occasionally traversed the region, exploiting the lack of Dominican military presence. The only battle between the two nations in what is now Pedernales occurred on January 6, 1856, near El Can Bay, close to Juancho.
Historically, this territory was part of the province of Azua until it was incorporated into Barahona when it was established as a province in 1881. Although some people inhabited the region since colonial times, it can be considered that the municipality was founded in 1927 when the government of Horacio Vásquez created an agricultural colony, placing it under the protection of the Virgin of Altagracia and belonging to the municipality of Enriquillo.
In 1934, the first military fort was constructed in the area, and by 1937, the Oviedo-Pedernales Highway was completed. In 1938, the municipal council of Enriquillo passed a resolution to designate Pedernales as a municipal district, which was subsequently granted municipal status in 1947. When the Pedernales Province was created in December 1957, it encompassed the city of Pedernales, which became the capital of the new province, and town of Oviedo. Juancho was designated as a municipal district in 1998, followed by José Francisco Peña Gómez in 2005.
Geography[]
Pedernales is located at 18.0369° N, 71.7455° W. According to the ONE, the municipality has a total land area of 1,274.67 square kilometers (492.15 square miles). It is bordered on the north by the municipalities of Duvergé and Mella, on the east by the towns of Polo and Enriquillo, on the southeast by the town of Oviédo, and on the west by the Haitian town of Anse-à-Pitres.
Climate[]
It has a desert climate with a summer rainfall regime ( BWhw ); the average annual temperature is 29°C and they have an average of 390mm of annual rainfall. It is one of the driest locations in the Dominican Republic.
In the desert savannah the temperatures reach 34 degrees Celsius during the day, while in the mountains temperatures drop to 10 degrees at dawn.
Municipal map of Pedernales
Neighborhoods
| Pedernales | 27,955 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section | Localities | |||
| 1. | Zona Urbana Pedernales |
Urban | 22 | Alcoa, Cabo Muelle, Campo de Aviación Nuevo + Viejo, Centro del Pueblo, Inés, José Francisco Peña Gómez, La Altagracia, La Cuarenta, Las Flores, Las Mercedes, Los Cayucos, Los Coquitos, Los Guayacanes, Militar, Miramar, Nicolás Féliz, Savica, Verde, Victor Cheche, and Villa del Mar. |
| 2. | Cabo Rojo | Rural | 3 | Cabo Rojo, El Cueva, and Isla Beata. |
| 3. | Las Mercedes | Rural | 8 | El Mogote, El Yayal (Campo Amor), Jurungo, Las Mercedes, Olivar, Sitio Nuevo, Sumbú, Toro Arriba (Sitio Quemao) |
| MD | José Francisco Peña Gómez Municipal District |
Urban | 3 | La Altagracia (Centro), Canta la Rana, and Jarro Sucio. |
| Rural | 2. Aguas Negras: Aguas Negras 3. Mencía: Cabo Duarte, Colonia Mencía, La Altagracia La Manigua, and La Rosa. 4. Altagracia: Bella Vista, Cabeza de Agua, Don Juan, La Altagracia, La Canoa, Paso de Sena, and San Isidro. |
The Cabo Rojo region is marked by its breathtaking natural scenery, rich history, and cultural significance. It offers a more serene and authentic experience compared to the more commercialized tourist centers. Its history is intertwined with the broader colonial and post-colonial narrative of the Dominican Republic, while its current status reflects the global push towards sustainable tourism and ecological preservation.
Economy[]
The main economic activities of the municipality are beef cattle raising, agriculture, mining and fishing.
Farming[]
The main agricultural products are snap beans and coffee, both produced in the mountains. Cattle and goats are developed in the savannah of Sanson, sometimes as wild cattle. Fishing is mainly done around Isla Beata, and catches of lobsters and lambi are important.
Mining[]
Some bauxite is still being extracted.
Tourism[]
Tourism, especially by national visitors, has increased dramatically due to the landscape resources of the region. The main points visited by tourists are the Bay of the Eagles and the Sierra de Bahoruco National Park , both at a short distance from the city.
Border[]
The area of Haiti's control includes land on the left side of the Pedernales River. This area is separated from the Dominican-controlled land by a curved line that starts at Figuier and extends towards Limon, crossing the Etang Saumâtre. The map created by General C. N. de Moya, a Dominican, shows Haiti's control over this area. This map was officially recognized by the Dominican congress on May 18, 1905.
In July 1910, the Dominican government, following President Gomez's plan, decided to build a 6-foot-wide military road for easier access for border guards. This road was intended to help monitor smuggling along the eastern bank of the Pedernales River, leading to Lake del Fondo, where the second border is located. The road was to pass through Boucan Patate, Tête-à-l'Eau, Bois Tombé, and into the Cul-de-Sac plain. Construction continued smoothly until December 14, when the communal chief of Grand Gosier claimed that some areas of his jurisdiction had been encroached upon. He instructed the border guard to halt the work to maintain good relations between the two governments.
For over a month, the border guard post was at Banane. The engineer overseeing the road construction stated that without the border guard present, he noted the communication sent to him and made a copy to forward to the Dominican government. This was so they could make a decision on the matter, as he could not halt the work without a direct order from his government.
The chief of Grand-Gosier confirmed his message to the engineer. On the 18th, a meeting occurred between his secretary and the border guard chief. The secretary attempted to convince the chief to agree to pause the work to prevent any violent conflict. However, the border guard chief responded that he could not comply with this request without violating his orders. He explained that the purpose of opening the path was solely for better surveillance of smuggling, as stated in the communication he showed. There had never been any Dominican forces in that area except for those necessary to monitor contraband.
As soon as the Haitian government became aware of this peculiarity, President Simon sent a regiment to force the Dominicans to leave their work.
The Dominican government called for the Haitian regiment to leave immediately, and this request was fulfilled. In exchange, the Haitians asked the Dominicans to halt their work, but the Dominicans declined. The Dominican public and media raised calls for war against Haiti. Both governments planned to take the border issue to the United States.
In January 1911, war was imminent. The Dominicans were very excited, while the Haitians remained calm. Haitian newspapers chose not to discuss borders. The Dominican government had sent troops to Pedernales.
On January 14, 1911, at 9 a.m., a meeting took place. The representatives were commissioners Edmond Héraux and Justin Bouzon from Haiti, along with commissioners Gérardo Jansen and Francisco J. Peynado from the Dominican Republic. They were all authorized to create a joint commission to resolve the conflict between the two nations, which was caused by a road built by the Dominican government along the eastern bank of the Pedernales River and Lake Azuei.
Two drafts from the previous evening's meeting were read. After some discussion, it was clear that the members of the Joint Commission could not agree on the item that required everyone's signature. Therefore, it was decided to create and sign this report to put a stop to the work.
The two banks of the Pedernales River, reaching up to Savane Sanson, are located at the foot of Bahoruco in the southwest corner of Pointe de la Béate, which was once a French territory. Since 1840, this area has been part of the Republic of Haiti. Haiti took this land from the French - just like it did with the rest of its territory - and not from the Spaniards or Dominicans after their split.
Culture[]
In Pedernales, the residents are strong followers of the Catholic faith, and they celebrate their patron saint festivals in January, specifically on the feast day of the Virgin of Altagracia. The festivities, referred to as "Patronales" by the local community, occur on January 21. During this time, the town pays tribute to its Patron Saint or Patron Virgin by organizing a solemn novena in her honor, followed by a series of processions.
As evening falls, the Municipal Music Band and Ballet Baton parade through the streets, marking the start of the religious events with masses and salves accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of sticks, drums, and tambourines. Various religious activities take place, including rosaries, holy hours, petitions, acclamations, wakes, pilgrimages, offerings, Stations of the Cross, confirmations, baptisms, and the kissing of hands. It is customary for each religious event to conclude with a toast, leading to celebrations in the neighborhood streets, which culminate in a serenade at the residence of the day's sponsor.
Nighttime festivities are held in the Central Park, featuring popular music groups, folk and traditional dances, as well as Creole cuisine and beverages. Sports tournaments are also organized in honor of the Patron Saint or Patroness at the Municipal Court. A significant aspect of the patron saint festivities is the reign, where a preselected jury chooses a court consisting of a queen, vice queen, and princess. This selection holds great significance for the young women, as they represent the town in various social, educational, and cultural events throughout the year. The election occurs on the final day of the patron saint festivities and is celebrated with traditional music.
Pedernales Carnival[]
The celebration occurs every afternoon throughout February, representing a vibrant aspect of cultural Spanish heritage. During the carnival, the mask holds paramount significance; the one donned by “Los Cachuas” features large horns, some adorned with a flowing mane crafted from bubble wrap, crepe paper, or papier-mâché, all affixed with paste. The attire is composed of vividly colored fabric, complete with bat-like wings. The capes are embellished with black or colored crosses at the center, intended to repel demons and negative energies.
The bells and cowbells attached to their costumes produce sounds that are believed to dispel negative energies and facilitate the flow of positive energies, thereby opening pathways and providing protection against malevolent forces. Mirrors are utilized to deflect the “evil eye.” Additionally, they wield a “whip” fashioned from “cabulla” (maguey leaves), intricately woven and attached to a stick, which they crack by striking it against the ground. In the “Los Cachuas” parade, a playful confrontation occurs between the cachuas and civilians (individuals not in costume but participating in the comparsa), where they engage in “fisticuffs” during a “punteo” (a whip fight between civilians and cachuas).
Dances and Traditional Music - "Salves"[]
Salves are religious songs dedicated to the Virgin, which have evolved to reflect local culture. Presently, there exist two distinct versions of the salve: the sacred rendition performed in churches influenced by European traditions, and the more secular creole version, which is sung during street processions, in neighborhoods, and within homes. These performances are regarded as solemn ceremonies, often accompanied by a balsié (a single-headed drum positioned between the legs), tambourines, and guiros, and may include dance.
Sticks or Drums
These musical instruments are integral to accompanying dance and are utilized by brotherhoods during religious celebrations, commemorative events, offerings, and promises made in honor of saints and virgins. They also feature prominently in the gagá and luanes festivals associated with Dominican voodoo, where they are performed solo and vary with each occasion.
Tambourine
This instrument measures approximately 10 inches in diameter, featuring a goatskin head and four holes (three for tin rattles and one for holding). It is commonly used in salves and to accompany rosaries, penitential practices, palos, and other forms of popular religious music.
Carabiné
A traditional dance originating from the southern region, performed in pairs under the guidance of a bastonero, Carabiné is characterized by its lively and energetic nature, accompanied by instruments such as the accordion, balsié, tambourine, marimba, guira, or guayo.
Ripiao Parrot
This lively dance is typically performed at festivals, particularly in rural areas. It features a trio of musicians playing the accordion, tambora, and guiro while singing, and is known for its fast-paced and vibrant rhythm.
Are
A musical and dance form of Afro-Caribbean-mestizo origin, prevalent in various regions throughout the Caribbean.
Bachata
This traditional dance, often referred to as “bitter music” due to the melancholic themes of its melodies and lyrics, typically involves a pair of dancers, with the male leading. The dance is characterized by its sensual movements.
Merengue
Recognized as the national dance of the Dominican Republic, merengue is performed in pairs, featuring quick turns. The music is upbeat and requires at least three instruments: the drum, the accordion, and the güira. Today, the maraca and the cornet have been incorporated. In this region, Merengue de Pandero is performed, accompanied by Balsié.
Points of Interest[]
Bahoruco Mountains The Sierra de Bahoruco is situated between the provinces of Pedernales, Barahona, and Independencia. This protected area spans 1,000 km² (386 mi²) and features a rich variety of ecosystems. Its diverse terrain, ranging from sea level to 2,367 meters (7,770 feet), along with climate variations, supports unique plant and animal life in the Dominican Republic. It is perfect for mountain tourism and hiking.
Lake Enriquillo This is the largest saltwater lake in the Caribbean.
Ecotourism
The region's national parks, including Jaragua National Park, Sierra de Bahoruco Park, and Isla Cabrito Park, offer opportunities to see the Caribbean's unique biodiversity.
The Oviedo Lagoon
This Biosphere Reserve includes several small islands and is an excellent spot for observing wildlife and plant life. Covering 28 km² (11 mi²) and only 1.5 meters (5 feet) deep, Laguna de Oviedo has a salinity three times that of the ocean. It is home to many water birds, iguanas, endemic fish, and lush vegetation, surrounded by mangroves, making it a captivating destination for ecotourism.
Beata Island
Beata Island is located at the southwestern tip of the Dominican Republic, south of Barahona, and covers about 27 km². (10 mi²) It is part of Jaragua National Park. This uninhabited island features small bays and expansive beaches on its northern side. Once a refuge for pirates during colonization, it is now a peaceful spot that sees few visitors.
Eagles Bay
Known as one of the most visually appealing beaches in the Dominican Republic, Eagles Bay is a major tourist destination in the south. A visit here is a must. Alto Velo Island, located next to Beata Island in the southwest, is also part of Jaragua National Park. This island is a nesting site for over 20,000 seagulls, making it the largest colony in the country, and it has a vibrant marine ecosystem. However, it does not have a beach.
Pelempito's Hole
Hoyo de Pelempito, found in the Sierra de Bahoruco, reaches a depth of over 700 meters (2300 ft.).
Caves
The Pedernales area is home to numerous underwater caves that offer excellent opportunities for diving, although prior training and specialized equipment are necessary for access.
Rivers
The Pedernales region features a variety of rivers, complete with waterfalls, natural spas, and locations suitable for swimming in pristine, clear waters.
Cabo Rojo Beach
The island of Alto Velo.
Twinning[]
Villagonzalo Pedernales, Spain
References[]
Division Territoriales [1] Pedernales - Ayuntamiento [2] Mi Pais - La República Dominicana - [3]
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