Dignified, aristocratic, ancient, secretive and deliciously Mediterranean - Ciutadella. An historic show piece which has failed to be ruined by the twentieth century.

Like Mahón, it was originally named by the Carthaginians, who called it Jamma. It was the original capital of Menorca until the British moved it to Mahón in the eighteenth century. However the Bishop refused to move and consequently Ciutadella still remains the religious capital of Menorca.

 Most people will enter Ciutadella for the first time by road and will encounter the magnificent new statue, on the roundabout at the entrance to the city. It is a magnificent rearing stallion and symbolises the famous Ciutadella fiesta - Fiesta de San Juan. Celebrated at the end of June, a ceremony rich in tradition, which accurately portrays the town’s ancient past and its inhabitants’ love of a celebration.

The other approach to Ciutadella is by sea, into the harbour. A narrow inlet,  it is one of the smallest ports in the Mediterranean and can experience severe storms. However on most days, especially in summer, it is bathed in sunshine, and ancient fisherman's’ houses with their external staircases and nets hanging out to dry, are overlooked by lively bars and restaurants.

 One of the best places to view the harbour is from the main square, Plaza d’Es Born. Once used for jousting and similar pursuits, the centre of the square is dominated by an obelisk which commemorates the historic defense of the city in 1558 when it was besieged by the Moors. On one side of the square is the magnificent Town hall which was once a fortress. Facing this across the square is a Palace - Torre Saura, and to one side of this is an alley, which leads into the heart of the old city.

 Here time has stood still. Most of the streets are narrow and typically Mediterranean, but there are traces of French, English and  Moorish architecture. The latter is best demonstrated by the arches Ses Voltes, which provide a most unusual arcade along the main street. The Cathedral in the Plaza de Pio XII, completed in 1362, took over half a century to build, and is only another example of the cities many churches and palaces.

Without a doubt, the best way to see Ciutadella is by foot. Forget the time and your map and just wander through the narrow streets soaking up the atmosphere.

What to do...

Anglican Church