Constructed between 1852 and 1854 in honor of Queen Isabella II of Spain’s first-born, Princess of Asturias Infanta Isabel, the promenade runs adjacent and parallel to the southwestern section of the Walls of Old San Juan.

[1][2] Lined with Victorian lampposts and benches, large trees and gardens, and varying fountains and sculptures, it hosts food and artisan vendors, musical and theatrical entertainers, and cultural restaurants and festivals.

[4][1][2] Paseo de la Princesa is often described as one of the most scenic city walkways in the world and, as a result of its location close to the cruise ship harbor, it is often the starting point for sightseeing in Old San Juan.

[7] This plaza also hosts a small wooden dock that offers great views of San Juan Bay, El Yunque and the Sierra de Luquillo to the east, and of other municipalities, such as Cataño and Bayamón to the west.

In 1854, Puerto Rico's Governor and Lieutenant General Don Fernando de Norzagaray foresaw an expansion of the prison and the construction of its tower.