Ciutadella
The ancient city of Ciutadella was Menorca’s original capital, but was stripped of the title in the 18th century when the British decided that Mahon’s sizable port made it a more worthy candidate. Mahon’s development was consequently heavily influenced by British cultural and architectural styles, while Ciutadella retained its Spanish and ancient Moorish influences.
Ciutadella is prettier, smaller and more welcoming than Mahon, with a lively marina area and a lovely ancient district. The city’s old quarter is steeped in history and is powerfully atmospheric, encompassing a network of maze-like lanes and cobbled streets that wind their way past ancient palaces of coloured stone, whitewashed houses and historical churches.
The area of Casas Palacio is a must-see for any visitor to the city, boasting several exquisite 17th and 18th century ‘mini palaces’, while Seis Voltes is a pretty collection of alleyways lined with whitewashed buildings and dotted with arcades. Also located in the historical quarter, Ciutadella’s cathedral was constructed in the 13th century on the site of a Byzantine mosque and has been altered several times since. The result is an attractive blend of architectural styles that reveal Gothic and neo-Classical influences.
The port area is Ciutadella’s most vibrant centre and it forms the hub of the city’s after-hours entertainment with its countless restaurants, bars and cafés. In the peak summer months the port has the added attraction of an evening bazaar.
Located close to Ciutadella are several areas of archaeological interest including the famous prehistoric burial site of Naveta d’es Tudons. Also located close by are the lovely beaches of Cala Blanca, Cala en Blanes and Cala Santandria.
Markets in Ciutadella are one of the town’s major tourist attractions. A fresh food market is held daily (closed on Sundays) and a craft market selling a variety of clothes, silver, jewellery, leather items and other handicrafts is held on Fridays and Saturdays at Plaza de Born. Ciutadella’s main square, Plaza de Born, is a cultural showcase for the city. The Diocese Museum of Menorca, with its extensive displays of archaeological relics, religious items, historical artifacts and artworks, is located here and a slim obelisk in the centre of the square commemorates those who died attempting to defend the town from Turkish invaders in the 16th century. One of Menorca’s most renowned archaeological attractions, Naveta d’es Tudons is located just a couple of miles from Ciutadella on the main road from Mahon. This bizarrely shaped stone construction is larger than a two-storey building and dates to prehistoric times. Archaeologists believe that it was used as a communal burial site for a mysterious ancient civilization.
