Ibiza City Introduction Walk (Self Guided), Ibiza

The town of Ibiza is the capital of the homonymous island in the Spanish Balearic archipelago.

The vast history of the island stretches all the way back to 654 BC, when Phoenicians established here a natural-bay port. This port was called Ibossim (or Iboshim, “the city of Bes”) in dedication to the god of music and dance (the legacy still very much present here today). Later, it became known to the Romans as Ebusus, until eventually adopting the Catalan name Eivissa (restored as the official name in 1986) and its derivative in English and Spanish – Ibiza.

After falling under Carthaginian control, the town/island emerged as a major producer of dye, salt and wool, and subsequently as a trading post, one of the largest on the Mediterranean routes. Following the destruction of Carthage in 146 BC, the city maintained its political and commercial autonomy, until falling into the period of decline that lasted almost the entire Roman imperial phase, followed by the arrival of the Vandals in 424, and the subsequent occupation by the Byzantines and Arabs.

The medieval period saw the area of Dalt Vila (literally "Upper Town") fortified by Spanish King Felipe II to protect the city from attacks by the Ottomans and pirates. Today, these fortifications are among of the best-preserved in Europe – listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site since 1999. Among them are the Ses Taules Gateway – built in 1585, and St. Pere Bastion – doubles as an outdoor theater. Also stands out from that period is a 13th-century landmark – the Cathedral of Saint Mary.

Ibiza became world-famous in the 1960s, thanks to the hippie movement, with many youngsters coming to enjoy local beaches, nightlife, and shopping. The more modern Ibizan attractions include: Contemporary Art Museum of Ibiza – opened in 1969, one of the oldest contemporary art museums in Spain; and Vara del Rey Walkway – arguably the most famous promenade on the island.

Indeed, a holiday in Ibiza can involve a lot more than just throwing shapes and soaking up the sun. To see for yourself the cutting-edge galleries, fascinating historical sites and eerie caves of Ibiza, take this self-guided walking tour.