Ciudadela Travel Guide

At the western end of the island, the town of Ciudadela (Ciutadella de Menorca) was the island’s capital until 1722, when the British switched to Mahón to make use of its deeper harbor. The British then built the main island road to link the two cities. Today Ciudadela has a classic Mediterranean ambience, with the narrow streets of its historic center lined with 17th- and 18th-century mansions and numerous churches. Development stopped in Ciudadela when the capital was transferred, and many buildings still stand that might otherwise have been torn down in the name of progress.

Like Mahón, Ciudadela perches high above its harbor. Known as Medina Minurka under the Muslims, Ciudadela retains Moorish traces despite the 1558 Turkish invasion and destruction of the city. An obelisk in memory of the city’s futile defense against that invasion stands in Plaça d’es Born, the main square overlooking the port.

Like Mahón, Ciudadela perches high above its harbor, which is smaller than Mahón's. The seat of Minorca's bishopric, Ciudadela pontificates while Mahón administrates.