Ibiza has served as a home to various civilizations throughout history: Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Christians. The passage of these civilizations has left us a legacy in the form of a walled city: Dalt Vila. As charming as it is mysterious, composed of cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and fantastic viewpoints, it becomes the heart of the island and one of the most iconic images of Ibiza. Its castle and its Renaissance walls were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on December 4, 1999, for being the best-preserved fortress in the Mediterranean, also including the neighborhoods of Sa Penya, Es Soto, La Marina, and the Puig des Molins Necropolis located in its surroundings.
The wall is made up of 7 bastions: Sant Pere, Sant Jaume, Sant Jordi, San Bernat, Santa Tecla, Sant Joan, and Santa Llúcia. Each of them gives us views or surroundings with a lot of magic. The walled city has become home to numerous artistic, cultural, and social events during spring and summer. The "Ibiza International Music Summit" in May, the "Ibiza Jazz Festival" in August, "Pasarela de Moda Adlib" or cultural activities such as dramatized tours, museum tours, visits to the church and the cathedral… But without a doubt, the most well-known and anticipated event for locals is "the Medieval Fair" which is held for three days over the second weekend of May. In addition, every Sunday morning in summer, a craft market is held. It is known as "El Rastrillo" and is located in Plaça de la Vila. Inside its walls you will find numerous restaurants, pleasant terraces, art galleries, charming little shops, and much more that will make your walks through its cobblestone streets a complete experience.
We don't forget the neighborhood located at the foothills of Dalt Vila: La Marina. An old neighborhood that preserves all the essence of yesteryear but with a very chic touch, making a stroll through its narrow streets an absolute delight. A multitude of world-renowned brand establishments mix with small craft shops and Adlib fashion accessories. It also features iconic places where you can enjoy a drink with live music or meeting points for locals and tourists like the Plaza del Parque. You cannot miss visiting Calle de la Virgen, packed with unique bars and venues focused on the LGBT audience. During the summer months, you can also enjoy several local craft markets while delighting in live performances by different artists in the most unexpected corners of its streets.
Our recommendation: Enjoy breakfast at «Plaça del Mercat Vell», a wonderful place to enjoy a good breakfast while contemplating the picturesque life surrounding the market.
