First impressions : a stairway to heaven
In 1999, Ibiza Old Town was declared A UNESCO World Heritage site. The intact 16th century fortifications of Ibiza bear unique witness to the military architecture and engineering of the time, reminiscent of Renaissance aesthetics. This unique melding of Italian-Spanish styles became highly influential in Mediterranean architectural trends, especially in the construction and fortification of towns in the New World.
To explore this idyllic site, you’re better off on foot, in sensible shoes, traversing the winding, steep, stone cobbled streets to enjoy the magnificent views from the breaks in the high ramparts and the vast terraces at each level (Dalt Vila actually means ‘High Town’).
What to see in Dalt Vila
Among the great treasures that you really shouldn’t miss on your visit to Dalt Vila are Cathedral of Santa María de las Nieves; the Town Hall, located in the Can Botino building, a former Dominican monastery; the Museu d’Art Contemporani d’Eivissa, and the castle and its ramparts which protected the town from frequent attacks by corsairs and pirates. This is said to be the best-preserved fortification in the whole Mediterranean region.
The dramatic main entrance draws your eyes upward toward a slope, crossing a drawbridge through the Portal de Ses Taules, flanked by mighty statues in Roman stone, welcoming you to an ancient paved stone courtyard, and then drawing you to Plaza de Vila, the main square.
The other entrance, Portal Nou (reached from behind the Plaza del Parque) offers a more gradual ascent. A leisurely pace is best, as there’s so much fascinating detail at which to marvel. Traditionally black clad Ibicencos, untouched by time, go about their lives in the ancient, Gothic Catalan buildings hugging the streets. Sturdy wooden doors reveal spacious stone courtyards and private chapels. The gift shops and art galleries on the walk up to the cathedral are treasure troves of unusual and unique works by local artisans.
The town is brimming with history. Two of the most prominent figures from the island’s past have monuments in their honor here. Look out for the bronze statue of Isidor Macabic, a priest and historian who was the first person to chronicle the history of Ibiza in detail. In Plaza de Espana, there is a monument to Guillem de Montgri who, in 1235, conquered Ibiza for King Jaime I. This reclining statue is a replica of the tomb of Guillem de Montgri in Gerona.
As you are wandering around Dalt Vila, don’t be afraid to peer through the tall doorways if they are standing ajar. This is a town of contrasts and surprises, so quite often you will find a pretty courtyard, or gift shop selling local crafts. A funny fact: on Calle Conquista, one comes across a display of handprints of celebrity guests to Ibiza, like in Hollywood...
Once arrived at the top of the hill, on the Cathedral plaza, the tremendous views over the city are the reward of your efforts. On the Sea-side there is much take in too: beautiful views to neighbour island Formentera, and the many boats going about in all directions.
The top part of Old Town of Ibiza (Dalt Vila) has become an outdoor museum with signs that lead you through the citadel's history and multitude of medieval buildings towards the castle at the centre.
When the Arabs ruled Ibiza they built a large fortress, much of which is still standing today with buildings that have been built around it. Evidence of the Punic period and the Moorish occupation were discovered in the excavations of the castle. There are two main defensive structures still standing:
The "Baluarte de Sant Jaume" holds an exhibition on the weapons used to defend the walls of Ibiza, showing visitors how the use of firearms affected the structure of the buildings.
The "Baluarte de Sant Pere", on the other hand, houses an exhibition explaining how those walls were built, including a reproduction of Renaissance scaffolds.
Back down again at sea level, on the other side of the yachting harbour lays Marina Botafoch. After a 15 minutes walk, you arrive at a spot to gather the beauty of Dalt Vila hill seen from afar.
Let us know and share what you liked most when visiting Dalt Vila Ibiza !
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