Local Area Information

Ciutadella
The beautiful historic city of Ciutadella (3 km from Torre Villa) is located at the extreme west coast of Menorca. It used to be the
capital of culture and commerce in Menorca, and although it has not been this for a long while, it is still a very attractive city, with a wonderful heritage and real appeal.

History
Nicknamed Vella I Bella, which translates to the Old and Beautiful, the city was first settled by the
Carthaginians, and since early days has been in competition with Mahon. In 1558 the city was evaded by 15,000 strong Turkish troops and was defended by just a handful of men. The city fell and was devastated, most of the survivors were
taken back to Turkey and sold as slaves.

When the British arrived in 1708 the city ceased to be its capital.

About town
Ciutadella is a very attractive city, with a charming port, and old quarter, which is a delight to explore. There are several good examples of Baroque and Gothic churches in the city.

The port is both a fishing and leisure port, and there are an abundance of wonderful waterside
restaurants, which line the quay. If you get there early enough you can watch the fisherman bring in the local catch of the day. From here you catch a ferry over to Alcudia in Mallorca.

The Placa d’es Born is one of the most picturesque squares in Ciutadella, on what used to be a former Arab marching ground; an obelisk now stands to commerate the Turkish invasion.

The Gothic cathedral in Placa de la Catedral dates back to the 13th century and survived the Turkish invasion, but did not fair so well in the Spanish Civil War.

Other architectural interests such as the Town Hall, Teatre Municipal d’es Born (Theatre), the palaces of Palau Salort and Palau de Torresaura.

The Placa Libertat is home to the covered market, and the Placa Nova the place to head for bars and cafes, and or some nice outdoor restaurants then head over to the Placa d’es Esplanada or Placa dels Pins.

The local beaches, or playas,  are idyllic – quiet,clean and safe. The nearest beaches to the villa are Cala Santandria and Cala Blanca (an easy bicycle-ride) ; further away Son Saura, Cala Macarella, Cala  Galdana and Cala Mitjana are highly recommended. And for sailing enthusiasts, Fornells, on the North side  of the island, is a firm favourite.     

Ciutadella Festival
Ciutadella celebrates its local festival on the 23-24th of June each year and the party is one of the most spectacular festivals in Menorca.

Eating out
Head to the port and its waterside restaurants, or Placa d’e Esplanada or Placa dels Pins for al fresco dining in beautiful garden square surroundings.

Climate
Menorca enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with often very warm temperatures even in the winter. The summer months are long and lazy, with plenty of sunshine to enjoy.