The more recent, recorded history of Isla Cristina goes back to the second half of the 18th century when Mediterranean, Catalan and Levantine fishermen established themselves here.
The more recent, recorded history of Isla Cristina goes back to the second half of the 18th century when Mediterranean, Catalan and Levantine fishermen established themselves here.
Concentrating particularly on the sardine, they founded a settlement that grew spectacularly, due to the enormous wealth of these fishing-grounds.
Isla Cristina’s original name was taken from the Higuerita, a symbolic tree, close to which a sweet-water well was established and the first charcoal produced. In 834 the name was changed to Isla Cristina in gratitude to Queen Maria Cristina for the aid given during a raging epidemic. The old town was also provided with the narrow streets, ending at the wharf, which now form part of the ‘Square of the Flowers’ and the Palm Tree Walk. The Church de los Dolores (of the Sufferings) is the prime focal point of Holy Week processions.
Located on the western edge of the Onubense province (the ancient name for Huelva) and in the South-West of the Andalusian region, Isla Cristina enjoys a privileged situation, with its 15 km of beaches of fine, white sand, clear waters and enjoying 3,000 hours of sun yearly.
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