Sant Ciriac Chapel, Ibiza

Nestled near the old town of Ibiza City, the Sant Ciriac Chapel is a modest yet historically significant monument. Built in 1754 by the Eivissa City Council, this chapel commemorates Sant Ciriac, the city's patron saint since 1650. Despite its small size, the chapel holds immense importance in illustrating the religious and historical fabric of the island.

Sant Ciriac Chapel stands at the beginning of the street that shares its name and is just a short walk from the Convent de Ses Monges Tancades The chapel is believed to have been constructed on the exact spot where Catalan forces entered the city in 1235, leading to the conquest of the Moorish rulers. Legend has it that the two Moorish kings who ruled the island at the time were embroiled in a bitter dispute, which ultimately made it easier for the Christian Catalans to seize control.

The chapel’s unique interior feature is a simulated tunnel entrance below the altar, symbolizing the path taken by the Catalan conquerors. This arch, located under a statue of Sant Ciriac, is said to have been the route through which the invaders passed during the conquest. A local tradition suggests that tossing a coin through this arch brings good luck to visitors.

Every year, on August 8th, the feast day of Sant Ciriac, Ibiza celebrates its patron saint and the anniversary of the Catalan conquest. Although small, the Sant Ciriac Chapel remains a significant site for both locals and tourists who are interested in the rich history of Ibiza.