Founded in 1830 by Americans with the name of Queen Amalia, is located about 3 km. of the the river Las Casas.
Today is the capital city of the Isle of Youth and owes its name to the General Captain of Cuba, Dionisio Vives, who fought for spanish independence in the city.
The artery is known as Calle Real, where are the old houses and the main shops of the place.