History
The vast history of the island of Ibiza dates all the way back to 654 BC when Phoenician settlers founded a port in the Balearic Islands. This port was called Ibossim in dedication to the god of music and dance. Eventually, Ibossim became known as Ebusus to the Romans of later years. After falling under Carthaginian control, the island became a major producer of dye, salt and wool. This immense post for trading became one of the largest of those on the Mediterranean routes after the establishments of its very own trading stations.
This unique and far reaching history allows for incredible architectural significance on the island. With so many various cultural influences on the island of Ibiza over a great number of centuries, there is an eclectic blend of historic sites to behold. Here is a comprehensive look into some of the most noteworthy architectural sites in Ibiza.
Old Town
Though the island has so much to offer in rich architectural design and history, the walls encompassing the Old Town are one of the most fundamental. They were originally constructed to be a part of the city’s most important defense during the 16th Century. These walls remain intact to this day and still include seven artillery bastions which tower high above the thick old walls. There are even walls from prior fortifications that still remain standing within the fortifications. The cathedral which is still enclosed by the ancient walls was built during the 1400s.
Additionally, the Hotel Montesol can be found in Ibiza’s historic Old Town. Though it is not quite as dated as the stunning walls previously mentioned, Ibiza’s premier hotel was constructed during the 1930s to be a mark of grandeur. This luxurious hotel was initially known as the Gran Hotel Ibiza and is placed on the Vara de Rey Boulevard. With its colonial styling, its characteristics truly stand out among the other architectural designs of the ancient Ibiza city.
Villages of Ibiza
Situated on the western side of the island, the village of Santa Ines or Santa Agnes de Corona offers residents and visitors a glance into a peaceful and more tranquil side of the island life. With its stunning whitewashed church that was raised in 1812 and the other dated buildings of the village, guests may stroll the streets to discover a way of life from long ago in this lovely rural countryside.
Explore the mixture of colonial designs with the ancient heritage of the island in the village of San Mateu (SantMateud’Albarca) while staying for a night in one of the rural hotels in Ibiza. The town has managed to remain unspoiled by the outside more modern world that surrounds it. It is encompassed by mountains and still boasts one of the most stunning churches of the island. Its church was built back during the 14th century along. With spectacular views of the valley, there are also a handful of quaint country homes that are quite dated as well.
While San Rafael is one of the smallest of the villages in Ibiza, it features one of the most extraordinary of the islands lovely white churches which was constructed in the 18th century. The benches surrounding Placa Joan Mari Cardona allow visitors to gaze all the way to the Old Town while encompassed by fragrant flowers. There is also a breath taking dated sculpture of Joan Mari Cardona which can be found there.
Modern Architectural Designs in Ibiza
While the island of Ibiza is in fact laden with thick historical monuments and chapels, there are also some more modern instances of great architectural design. One of these includes the Teatro Pereira which was constructed in Ibiza Town and remains a hot spot for those who enjoy good food and eclectic music to this day. The island truly has architectural design that can appeal to virtually anyone of any age.
