Ibiza is so much more than just Europe's party island with great weather. The island’s old town, Dalt Vila, is living proof of the island's rich history telling tales of ancient civilizations dating back to 2,725 years ago. Ibiza Town was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC and still holds remnants of empires past. The UNESCO-listed old quarter is a picturesque maze of quiet cobblestone streets, charming plazas, and local cafés and restaurants, all set against a backdrop of white painted buildings with countless flowers.

These winding lanes lead up to the 16th-century ramparts, the grand Catedral d’Eivissa, and the historic Castell d’Eivissa. The Ibiza Castle is also set to open a hotel later in 2025, offering about 66 tooms with breathtaking views.

From the Phoenicians to the Romans, and the Moors, each civilization has left its mark on the town leaving a mix of architectural styles from different periods and breathtaking monuments that make Dalt Vila a living book of history.

The Catedral de Santa María is a Roman Catholic cathedral built on the site of a former Moorish mosque, blending Gothic and Baroque styles.

The cathedral embodies Ibiza's layered history and serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ibiza since 1782.

Originally constructed by the Moors, it includes the Moorish-era Tower of Homage, the 8th-century Almudaina Moorish keep, the former governor's residence, and 18th-century infantry barracks.

Over the centuries, the castle was reinforced and expanded, blending elements of Moorish and later Catalan military architecture.

The 16th-century fortifications, built during the Renaissance under the orders of King Philip II of Spain, are among the best-preserved and largest in the world.

They feature strategically positioned cannons designed to defend against attacks from the Turkish Navy and other potential threats.

The Old Town not only boasts a rich history and charming streets, but it also offers breathtaking views of the entire island, overlooking the sea, the marina, and the surrounding hills.

The Mercat Vell is a must while in Ibiza with its architectural style inspired by ancient Greek temples and built in the 19th century, oferring a lively atmosphere and a wide variety of local products, including fresh olive oils, salts, and seasonal produce.

As one of the oldest towns of the entire continent, Dalt Vila shows how Ibiza should not be reduced to its nightlife.