Ciutadella
The municipality of Ciutadella covering the western third of the island is the largest in Menorca. From spectacular sunsets to the oldest pre-historic monuments in Menorca, Ciutadella has something for everyone. The town is steeped in history with a rich mix of architectural styles bearing witness to the different eras in its past. Ciutadella is perhaps most famous for the annual Fiestas de Sant Joan, the summer festivities which culminate with the colourful jaleo.
Various resorts are located on the west and south coasts offering a full range of watersports and entertainment options. Further afield along both the north coast and the south coast are a number of picure-perfect “virgin” beaches which remain totally undeveloped. However, because most are now accessible by car or bus, don’t expect to have the beach to yourself in high season.
Founded by the Carthaginians, Ciutadella remained the capital of Menorca until 1772, and remains the ecclesiastical capital to this day. Ciutadella has a rather grand air with many elegant historical buildings, churches and large squares. The old town is packed with impressive architecture including a gothic cathedral and several palaces belonging to the noble families, some of which are now open to the public. Buses stop at the Plaça des Pins, which is adjacent to the Plaça des Born at the heart of the town. From there a series of narrow cobbled alleys, many of which are too narrow for cars to pass, hide an array of stylish boutiques and fashionable cafes and restaurants. Steps from the main square lead down to the quaint port, where locals moor their traditional llauts (fishing boats) and lively restaurants and bars line one side of the harbour. The inner end of the harbour is the location of the late night bars and clubs and a craft market is set up on the steps at night.
Things to See & Do
Ciutadella has one of the highest concentrations of tourists resorts on the island. The resort developments in this part of the island are relatively recent and offer all activities and entertainment options one would expect from a modern holiday resort, from water sports to go-karting and aqua parks (see below for further details).
If you want to get away from the resort scene however, a day can easily be spent wandering around Ciutadella town alone. To see the coast from a different vantage point, boats departing from Ciutadella port and Cala’n Bosch run half day cruises along the coast and stop in at some of the less accessible coves. Alternatively, hire a small motor boat yourself in Cala’n Bosch.
The Pont d’en Gil is a natural archway in the cliffs just north of Cala en Forcat and particularly worth a visit at sunset. This is also the site of one of Menorca’s most famous dive sites; an underwater cavern with stalactites and stalagmites.
Further inland there is a hippodrome where trotting races are held regularly. Or you may prefer a guided horse-riding tour at one from the local stables. The terrain in this part of Menorca is very flat making it ideal for cycling. There are various marked cycle routes, many on unsurfaced roads, so mountain bikes are recommended. The new municipal sports centre in Ciutadella is open to visitors and residents alike. They also organise cycling excursions for groups.
Along the Ciutadella-Maó main road the Naveta D’es Tudons is clearly marked. This is perhaps the most famous archaeological site in Menorca and dates back to around 1400 BC. Built from huge stones in the shape of an upturned boat, these megalithic structures, which are exclusive to the island, are thought to have been used first as dwellings and later as burial chambers.
For something different, a visit to the disused quarries at Pedreres de s’Hostal is a real highlight.
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