The district derives its name from the Lugar Nuevo de los Canónigos, a place of residence for the canons of Orihuela cathedral, which once had power over the area.

In 1701, after some lawsuits with the settlers, the church made some allowances which permitted the foundation of Bigastro, starting with three estates, in which 24 families lived.

At the time of its foundation, agriculture was concentrated around flax and hemp; in the 19th century, the fall of the textile sector sparked interest in citrus fruits and products from irrigated fields.

The young age of the town means that some landlord's homes survive, along with some farmer's dwellings dispersed throughout the area.

[2] Other important dishes in Bigastro come from the pastry shops: almojábanas, toñas, almendrados, monas and soplillos.