Guide of Ciutadella (Minorca)

Ciutadella is the capital of in Menorca, it is located on the west coast of the island. Ciutadella is an elegant town that is full of things to explore. In general, the Balearic Islands have wonderful natural landscapes, beautiful beaches and crystal clear water. There is also plenty of history and culture on the Balearics and traces of this rich history are still visible today.  

A brief history of Ciutadella

Ciutadella has a history that goes back millennia, to even before the Romans! The city was founded by the Carthaginians, then it was besieged by the Moors, only to be returned to the Aragonese empire at the end of the 1200s, under Alfonso III. He included Ciutadella in the kingdom of Aragon and the city became an important centre for trade and business.

In 1558 there was a fierce invasion from the Turkish and many people were killed. Ciutadella then became the capital of the island and its main cultural centre, then in 1700, during the British conquest, the capital was transferred to Mahon.

Places to visit

Ciutadella is made up little historic streets and alleys and it is fascinating just to walk around and discover the old town, where most of the buildings are in medieval Arab style. The central square is called Plaça d'es Born, an obelisk stands in the centre of the square in memory of the victims of the Turkish invasion.

The main street, Carrer ses Voltes, is full of shops and cafes and behind the Town Hall building is a great view of the harbour from above.  Don't miss a trip to the lively fish market, which is located inside a fine tiled building. Ciutadella Cathedral is in Catalan-Gothic style and its façade is in a Baroque style. It was built in the 1400s, it occupies the same position as the former Medina Minurka mosque when the city was under the Arabs.  There is also a municipal museum worth visiting, along with the Castell de Sant Nicolau tower, which is a watch tower that was built in the 1700s - from the top you get a beautiful view of the sea.

Beaches around Ciutadella

Son Saura is a quiet, sandy beach surrounded by a pine forest, however, this part of the coastline is quite difficult to access and there are no bars and restaurants nearby, which is why the beach is less crowded.  One of the most popular beaches on the island is about 5 kilometres from Ciutadella and is called Cala Blanca. It has transparent waters, rocky cliffs around and plenty of services, making it convenient for families with children. Another nice beach is Cala Santandria, it is located in an inlet surrounded by rocky cliffs, the sea is beautifully clean sea and so it's a great place to snorkel.