Menorca Ciutadela

You ask, isn’t much of Europe dotted with reminders of vibrant, sometimes violent histories that have made freedom fighters of the good old days into today’s martyrs? And isn’t much of Europe also steeped in religion, at times of the traditional and medieval kind, and the odd time marked by paganism and witchcraft? Europe is after all the Old World, and naturally, there’s a generous sprinkling of history and religion.

So what’s so special about Ciutadella? What else is new? Plenty.

While Ciutadella has been described by some as “secretive” its Mediterranean character is visible. Tucked in the west coast of Menorca, and probably one of the smallest ports in the Mediterranean, Jamma, as it was once called, stands out like a proud historical monument, beckoning visitors to come and linger and take in the flavors of the town.

Ciutadella does not discriminate in welcoming visitors. The couple, the single longer, or families with kids and teenagers will find that Ciutadella caters to all moods. If you’re traveling alone, you’ll cherish the long, solitary walks on Ciutadella’s streets.

Things to Do

Don’t let its smallness fool you. The best way to explore Ciutadella is to pack an extra pair of loafers or walking sandals because genuine appreciation of a particular place comes as a result of miles and miles of walking……in beautiful, narrow streets.

As you do your leisurely promenade, take in the Cathedral which took about 50 years to finish, and if you happen to be around in the latter part of June, do as the natives do. Live it up as the Fiesta de San Juan rolls out with the famous gin drink called “pomade” and some horse racing. Or you can just watch in awe and laugh and clap your hands with the town folk. That’s what happy Menorca is all about.

There’s the National Museum and the Naveta des Tudoms. For shoppers, the indoor markets called “mercados” offer food, flowers, clothes, shoes – at prices much lower than those in shops.

If you’re a beach lover, Ciutadella has no beach of its own, but it has one of the most efficient transportation systems in Menorca. Buses can take you to nearby beaches in Cala, Santandria, and Sa Caleta!

Eating and Drinking

Bring back fond memories of Ciutadella with the dining and drinking pleasures you’ve experienced. Great seafood restaurants abound – Restaurante La Payesa (tel. no. 34-971-380-021), Restaurante Sesplanada (34-971-482-040) or the Restaurant El Bribon (34-971-385-050), just to name a few. And the bars – oh yes – feel Spain in your blood by checking out the Jazzbah Club, Sa Clau Jazz Club or the Bar VIB S.

No doubt the hotels in Ciutadella would also offer the visitor some fine dining and drinking.