A town with a history of famous traditional rooster fights, fine horse steps and the beautiful fine crochette.

The town of Isabela is one of the most important parts of the history of the island and great interest. Known since 1819, a year when it was moved from its original location, San Antonio de Padua de la Tuna. Where it was first founded in the 18th century near the year 1725. San Antonio de La Tuna, derives from the avocation of the Spanish settlers to the saint San Antonio de Padua and in honor of a wild cactus growing in the region (Tuna is the Spanish name for cactus).

Its location was near the Guajataca River, high ground levels, one of the most beautiful areas. Near was the “Yucayeque” (Indian village) of the famous “Cacique Mabodamaca” (Indian chieftain); who with courage fought with Agueybana against the Spaniards for their lands and people.

Fray Iñigo Abad mention in his notes that San Antonio de la Tuna was located in a place were life was long and healthy, that through the years 1777 to 1779 nobody died.

Prompted by economic and health factors, the decision to relocate the hermitage to a more favorable location was pursued. Around 1818, the village obtained authorization from the Governor Salvador Meléndez to transfer the population to a new location closer to the coast. The new community would be named Isabela in honor of Queen Isabella of Castile. Meléndez approved the transfer request and a new town was founded the following year on May 21, 1819. In its first location at the center square was built the first church. Where up to this year the remaining of the walls still stand. In front is the burial of the remains of the first establishers of Isabela.

The early economy of the hermitage had been based mainly on cattle ranching, its derivative products and hogs, but trading was limited because of many factors: its inland location and topography, the settlement was posted above a hill overlooking the river Guajataca and it difficult the use of the river as a trading route and the location's propensity to disease and outbreaks. After the transfer to the present Isabela the economic realities that resulted from the new land and property opportunities that were readily available, the healthier environment formed due to the wide open plains and prevalent northern winds, and the proximity to the coast and the natural sea port at the bay of 'Punta Sardina' prompted for the diversification of the agricultural products and an increase on trade. The cultivation of sugar cane, coffee, tobacco, cotton, yuca, coconuts and fruits was stimulated further. Besides the elaboration of white cheese, which is why the town is also known for his famous “quesito de hoja” cheese wrap in banana leaves. Since then, Isabela has continued to flourish up to the present time.