Dominican Culture Minister Tours Revitalization of Historic Nigua Mill

SAN CRISTÓBAL, Dominican Republic – Dominican Culture Minister Roberto Ángel Salcedo inspected the ongoing restoration of the historic Nigua Sugar Mill ruins on Thursday, assessing progress on a project aimed at preserving the significant cultural heritage site in the Nigua municipality.

During his visit, Salcedo was accompanied by San Cristóbal Governor Pura Casilla, Nigua Mayor Jorge Ortiz Carela, and National Director of Monumental Heritage Juan Mubarak. Technicians and engineers involved in the renovation work were also present.

Since assuming his post in February of last year, Minister Salcedo has prioritized the preservation and restoration of the nation's cultural patrimony, underscoring the importance of projects like the Nigua mill.

Local authorities expressed satisfaction with the advanced state of the work at the mill, which was originally constructed in the mid-1600s for sugar production. Mubarak assured the minister that the restoration adheres strictly to historical guidelines, ensuring faithfulness to the original structure.

The Nigua Sugar Mill holds significant historical importance as the site of the 1796 Boca de Nigua Rebellion, the largest revolt by non-freed slaves in the Dominican Republic.

Before the renovation began, an expert study revealed substantial structural deterioration, particularly in the mill's roof, which suffered from cracks, deformations, metal corrosion, and white mold. Salcedo observed the advanced reconstruction of the roof during his tour.

In light of the significant progress, Salcedo instructed that the reopening ceremony include a concert by the Santo Domingo Philharmonic, aiming to draw visitors and highlight the historical space's renewed value.