The city of Ibiza is the capital of the island of Ibiza and home to the Consell Insular
of Ibiza (government). It has some 40,000 residents, its area covering
three well-known beach resorts: Figueretas, Talamanca and Playa den Bossa.
The harbour of Ibiza, situated in a natural bay, is the main point of access by sea,
landing in La Marina, where for many years the local fishermen and sailors had their
base, and which today is the main shopping and nightspot in the Ibiza area. After
sunset, its streets come alive with people who enjoy the nightlife, which can be
many things: a stroll, having a drink or simply to be seen.
In Ibiza town it is possible to enjoy open-air concerts, including a popular jazz
festival, to stroll through the old town — which has been declared a World Heritage
Site by Unesco —, visit the theatre?
Of cultural interest, there is the Punic necropolis at the Puig des Molins, which,
with more than 50,000 square meters is the largest in the world, and also the
Archaeological Museum for Ibiza and Formentera.
A fortress that longs to be conquered
To go up to “Dalt Vila” (the high town) is to go back into the past. With one significant
difference: Today the fortifications are destined to be conquered day after day, enabling
one to appreciate their beauty and enjoy the beautiful views of the port and the area
surrounding the town.
As we reach the highest point of the town we find the place where the Carthaginians decided
to found a settlement 2,700 years ago. The reasons are patently obvious: the huge salt
marshes, a source of wealth and a treasure to be protected, stretch out to the south-west.
On the other side is the bay, a natural port around which the town was to grow. And close
at hand are fertile lands and freshwater springs. All the strategists of later centuries
and millenniums confirmed the choice of the founders, by modifying, strengthening and
enlarging the fortifications. They are the last monumental walls of the Balearic Islands
to be left intact. Behind it a town full of architectural jewels and charming nooks and
crannies is hidden, the scene of spectacular celebrations and artistic expression.
At the foot of this hill that is so steeped in history an area steeped in stories spreads
out: the former fishermen’s quarter, which has become the home of shops and bars, the
favourite meeting place for many people who have one thing in common: they are different.
