Ciutadella – The Old Capital of Menorca
Ciutadella is an amazing small port town on the western coast of Menorca. This town used to be the capital of the island once and still charms with its incomparable Spanish atmosphere.
General Info
The full name of the city is Ciutadella de Menorca and for a long time it’s been the most important settlement, which is why it acted as the island’s capital in the past. Sitting on the western shores, today, Ciutadella is mainly known to Yacht Charter for its medieval charm and the exquisite fish restaurants.
The city’s history goes back to Roman times, when it was founded by the Carthaginians. For a long time it was under the influence of the Moors and only after the reconquista did it fall under the rule of the Spanish. Today, most of the historical buildings that are worth seeing are located in the Old Town, which is famous among Yacht Charter holidaymakers for its medieval charm.
Travel & Arrival
There is one international airport on the island, but it’s on the eastern shore, close to Mahon. The distance by road is just over 45km and the estimated transfer time a Yacht Charter groups could expect to make is just under an hour.
On the other hand, there are numerous ferries arriving here from all parts of the Mediterranean basin. There are boats from the other Balearic islands such as Puerto Alcudia and Palma in Mallorca and from Spain with cities like Barcelona or Valencia (with the possibility of stopping in Mahon).
Avant & Apres Sail
The top Yacht Charter tourist attraction is the 17th century Castell Sant Nicolas, actuallya defense tower which today has been turned into an art gallery. Another hot spot is the local cathedral which was originally built as a mosque. You should also drop by the Plaza del Borne, the Town Hall or the Museo Archeologico de Ciutadella for a deeper look into the local history.
The shopping experience is typical of such a small town and a Spanish resort. The small shops and boutiques offer mainly shoes and accessories but in the local markets you can also treat your Yacht Charter seamen to fruit, vegetables, local cheeses and specialties such as spicy sausage.
Ciutadella is famous among the Balearics for its cuisine which is reminiscent of the Islamic and Catalan heritages. Among the local recipes that appeal to Yacht Charter enthusiasts are the lobster stew, caldereta stew, calamari stuffed with potato and many more. There are also numerous cold pastries and sweets as well as a wide assortment of cheeses – the mahones cheese being one of the most appreciated in Europe.
The nightlife in Ciutadella is limited to a number of terraces and bars along the narrow streets and in the main squares that are great for a drink with Yacht Charter friends and for listening to the various types of music. However, there are also a couple seasonal establishments such as breweries, clubs, cocktail bars and terraces by the harbor.
Events & Actions
There are numerous cultural manifestations happening throughout the summer months in Ciutadella. Among these there are street performances, music and dance festivals like the International Jazz Festival of Menorca. There is also the biggest fiesta on the island, the San Juan Fiesta held on the 23rd and 24th of June every year, with a history of over 600 years, famous throughout Spain.