Ibiza, the mythical land of rave parties, rivers of alcohol and hangover tourism… oh, wait, that was in 1990s… or 2000s… oh well…
It is an island 79 km/49 miles off the coast of Valencia in Spain in the Mediterranean Sea.It is the third largest island among the Balearic Islands and it is one of the two Pine Islands, the other being Formentera.
The landscape of this island is rocky and harsh, and there is little rainfall. However, its vibrant nightlife, gorgeous beaches and perfect Mediterranean climate attract plenty of all types of visitors (modern hippies included 🙂 ).
A Little Bit of History
The Carthaginians discovered this unique place in 654 B.C., and founded Ibiza Town, one of the earliest towns in Europe.
Cala Conta beach (Platges de Comte) near San Antonio, Ibiza
They called the town Ibossim and the Greeks called it Pitiusas, which means pine covered island.
As the Carthaginians were merchants and traders, the town became an important trading center. The city had a large harbor and strong city walls even during that time.
Salt – the “White Gold” of the time – was the most important of the traded goods.
The Romans conquered the Balearic Islands in 123 B.C., and after the Romans this port was invaded by the Vandals, Barbarians and Byzantines (never a dull moment).
Port of Ibiza
The Arabs came in the 9th century and stayed for nearly 500 years and you can feel their strong influence even today. They built a large mosque and fortified the city walls.
The Catalans were the next rulers who came in 1235. They demolished the mosque and built the Cathedral. Many churches were constructed and villages were renamed after Christian saints.
The island was neglected by the Catalans during the following centuries, so it came under pirates’ attacks. The villagers built churches with extra fortified walls and roofs with cannon to protect themselves.
View of the harbor from the Old Town of Ibiza
New Year’s Day, the Patron Saint’s Day, the Carnival, Mayday, Flower Festival and the Carmen-holiday are some of the famous celebrations here.
The arrival of summer is celebrated throughout Spain with fireworks and bonfires.
Where is Ibiza?
- 141.6 miles/ 228 km from Valencia, Spain
- 194.4 miles/313 km from Barcelona, Spain
- 354.1 miles/570 km from Madrid, Spain
- 90.7 miles/ 146 km from Palma de Mallorca, Spain
- 459.1 miles/ 739 km from Marbella, Spain
- 132.9 miles/ 214 km from Alicante, Spain
- 6.2 miles/ 10 km from Ibiza Airport, Spain
- 95 miles/ 153 km from Palma de Mallorca Airport, Spain
- 144.1 miles/ 232 km from Alicante-Elche Airport, Spain
- 200 miles/ 322 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport, Spain
- 146.6 miles/ 236 km from Valencia-Manises Airport, Spain
Things To See
- Las Salinas Salt Flats
- Dalt Vila
- Can Marca Caves
- Necropolis del Puig des Molins
- Sunset experience
- Hippy Markets
- Dance!
- Boat Charter
- Diving tours
Beaches
- Talamanca Beach
- Figueretas Beach
- Playa d’en Bossa Beach
- Es Cavallet
- Las Salinas, Es Codolar, Sa Caleta and Cala Jondal are some of the other beaches in Ibiza Town.
Excursions
- Ibiza Tourist Train
- The East and Northeast
- Mountain Bike Tour
This destination is home to Spain’s most famous clubs, however the coastal walking trails and quiet beaches are its great attractions.
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
