Capital of the province bearing the same name, this city of around 80.000 inhabitants is the country´s main port on the Caribbean Sea.

In 1502 Christopher Columbus disembarked on Uvita Island, just off the coast, and remained there for over two weeks giving his men a rest, repairing vessels and exploring the coastline. But it was not until the XVII century when this zone was truly settled, and further developed with the construction of the railway in 1871. This structure was not only important because of the economic growth it brought about, but also because it fostered the meltingpot of races and cultures that today give it is particulary exotic character. Moreover, the Afro-Caribbean race and culture continue to prevail. Its folklore is unique in the country and reaches its maximum expression with the carnival, annually celebrated in October to remember Christopher Columbus' arriving.