city, northeastern Dominican Republic, on the southern shore of the Samaná Peninsula. The city was founded in 1756 by Spaniards from the Canary Islands. In 1825 there was a notable influx of black immigrants from the United States. Samaná serves as a commercial and manufacturing centre for the hinterland, which yields timber, cacao, coconuts, rice, and marble. Tanning is also an important economic activity. Samaná has port facilities and is a beach resort. Pop. (2002) urban area, 10,692.