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Hidden Gems

Ciudatella, Menorca

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1 day in Ciudatella, Menorca

Estimated time to visit: 4 hours (time for lunch not included) 

 

Ciutadella is (After Mahon) the second largest town in Menorca and until 1722 the island´s capital. It is today the seat of a bishop but above all a beautiful, attractive and appealing city.Its port is full of restaurants where you will enjoy fish with fantastic views.  

Brief history of Ciutadella

Ciutadella was founded by the Carthaginians and was later occupied by the romans. During the Muslim rule it was known as Jamma and it had lots of power in the island, being held as the capital. The Moors conquered Menorca in 903 and it was under the rule of the Caliphate of Cordoba. The role and love of people from Menorca to the horses dates back from these days. The Island became part of the Almohade Empire and Jaime I conquered it for the Aragon Kingdom, though stayed Menorca (and Ciudatella as its capital) stayed as an independent Estate for some years.  

 

In Cala en Forçat, near Ciutadela, there are Moorish remains (a minaret and a mosque). Ciutadella was almost totally destroyed during the Turkish 1158 invasion and the city was restored in the XVIIth century. It was at that time Menorca´s capital, but when the british invaded the island it lost this privilege in favour of Mahon.

Things to do in Ciudatella

Enjoy the Port of Ciudatella

 

The port is very lively, specially during summer. It extends for over 1 kilomter with a width that varies from 15, to over 100 meters. The mixture of traditional sailing boats (Llauts), luxury sailing boats, and crowded restaurant terraces make of this port one of the most attractive ones in Spain. You will be able to enjoy a drink, or a typical caldereta at one of the restaurants here: Es Forat, des Forts, Payesa or Tritón among others. At the entrance of the port you will be able to enjoy the beautiful castle of San Nicolas. 

Plaza des Born

You will enjoy great views on your way to the square of Born from the port. Some of the best views are next to the town hall, which was an old moorish Alcazar. The main highlight at the square is the obelisk, built in the XX century in honor to those who fought for the city.

Cathedral of Ciudatella

Single-aisled Gothic church which work begun at around 1300. Classical main portal dates from 1814.

The historical quarter

with the Carrer ses Voltes, the fish market, the street of Josept María Quadrado where you will find the best shops in Ciutadella.

Archeological ruins near Ciutadella

The Naveta of Tudon, the most important megalithic monument on the island, probably dates from the Minorcan Bronze Age. It is shaped like an upside-down ship. Archaeological ruins of Ciudadela: Many natural Stone Age caves; troglodytes in Cala Morell, Terreta Saura and Sant Juan Gran wall paintings; cyclopean walls of Alfurinet, Torre Llafuda and Santa Rosa. There are numerous Roman remains (tombs, burial niches) in Cala en Forcat;

42 kilometers west of Mahon (40 minutes)

Interesting things near Ciudatella

Mahon city guide

Mahón is the Capital of Menorca and one of Spain´s cities with larger British influence.Today it holds a population of around 30,000 and its main highlight is with no doubt its beautiful harbour; one of the Mediterranean most impressive natural harbours. Discover in this Menorca city guide all you need to plan your visit to Mahón.

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