Santa is one of thirty-two (32) municipalities (along with two cities) comprising the province of Ilocos Sur in the Ilocos Region ( Region I ).

Santa, formerly called Santa Catalina de Alexandria, Virgen y Martir, is the second oldest town of the province, founded after its patron, Saint Catherine of Alexandria. It was also known as encomienda of Narandan, which served as the hospital of the Spaniards.

Santa is known for its industrious people, who are blessed with the bounty of nature from the mountains, rivers and seas.