La Isabela Archaeological Park
Parque Nacional Histórico La Isabela
The site of the first European settlement in the Americas, founded by Columbus in 1493. Foundations of his residence remain by the sea.
La Isabela was founded at the end of 1493, during Columbus's second voyage. It is considered the first permanent European settlement in the New World, and it was abandoned after only a few years. The archaeological park features stone foundations of Columbus's residence, a church and a warehouse, as well as a burial ground. A small museum displays Spanish and Taíno artifacts that have been excavated. Beside it is the Basilica of Our Lady of the Americas, built in 1994. The site is modest in size but of great historical importance. It lies west of Luperón, about 50 kilometers from Puerto Plata, and can be combined with a visit to Luperón Bay.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Cayo Arena (Paradise Island)
- 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
- Ocean World Adventure Park
- Teleférico Puerto Plata (Pico Isabel de Torres)
- Fortaleza San Felipe
- Victorian Downtown & Parque Independencia
- Amber Museum
- Malecón de Puerto Plata