The Centuries that Shaped Ciutadella: Fortresses, Pirates & Kings

Surrounded by ramparts and legends, Ciutadella carries a strategic past that now enriches every moment of the Open Menorca ATP Challenger 100.

While the tournament draws the world’s attention, a stroll through its cobbled streets or a glance over its ancient walls reminds you that this city has always been far more than a pretty postcard.It was a stronghold, a trading port, and a stage for conquest. A place where the sea brought both culture and invaders. And that legacy—crafted by pirates, monarchs and merchants—still pulses just steps from the Club Tenis Ciutadella, the tournament venue.

A City with Its Eyes on the Horizon

Perched on the western edge of Menorca, Ciutadella has long held strategic sway in the Mediterranean. From Roman times well into the 18th century, its port and location made it a coveted prize for those seeking control of the Mare Nostrum’s trading routes.

In the Middle Ages, it flourished as the island’s political and administrative heart. First under Arab rule, and later under the Crown of Aragon, Ciutadella became an episcopal seat, island capital and commercial hub. Its urban layout still breathes that noble legacy—where every alleyway and square whispers stories of the past.

Walls, Bastions and a Fear of the Sea

The 16th century was a turning point. With the Ottoman Empire on the rise and pirate raids increasing, Menorca became dangerously exposed.
In 1558, Ciutadella endured its most devastating event: the Turkish invasion, or Setge de 1558. Led by Admiral Pialí Bajá, an Ottoman fleet besieged the city for eight days. Thousands were killed, and the survivors were deported to Constantinople.

That tragedy left a lasting scar. In response, new defences were built: walls, bastions and reinforced gates. Remnants of these still stand today—like the Baluarte de sa Font (1), near the historic gateway to the city, or segments of the old city wall that remain integrated into the urban landscape.

(1) Baluarte de sa Font, built in the 17th century atop the remains of the medieval wall damaged during the 1558 Turkish raid, is one of the most significant remnants of Ciutadella’s former fortifications. Its original purpose was to protect the Sa Font gate, which was demolished in 1889. Once its defensive role was no longer needed, it served as a tithe warehouse, an acetylene lighting factory and later a water storage facility. In 1995, following full restoration, it was reopened as the Ciutadella Municipal Museum. Its collection features palaeontological remains, archaeological pieces and everyday objects that span centuries of Menorcan history.

Castles & Coastal Strongholds

Beyond the city walls, Ciutadella was dotted with watchtowers and coastal forts, many of which still remain open to visitors. Among them, the Torre des Castellar (2)—also known as the Torre de Santandria or Sa Caleta—served as a lookout, scanning the horizon for threats.

Another standout: the Castell de Sant Nicolau (3), positioned at the harbour entrance. Built in the 17th century with an octagonal shape, surrounding moat and drawbridge, it served as both a military post and a symbol of Menorca’s resilience. Today, it’s a cultural venue and scenic lookout—one of Ciutadella’s most photographed landmarks.

(2) Torre des Castellar, located in Sa Caleta (Ciutadella), was built by the British between 1799 and 1802 as part of Menorca’s coastal defence system. Its aim was to protect the nearby coves, supporting the Sant Nicolau Castle. Circular in shape with a truncated cone structure, it is surrounded by a dry-stone embankment and a six-metre moat. The tower is clad in local marès stone blocks and stands out for its underground access and twelve loopholes for land defence. With a height of eight metres and a rooftop designed for artillery, its low profile made it nearly invisible from the sea, enhancing its strategic value.

(3) Sant Nicolau Castle, standing at the entrance to Ciutadella’s harbour, was built between 1680 and 1682 by military engineer Josep Castellón to protect the city’s maritime access from potential attacks. Constructed on the site of an old chapel, the castle features an elegant octagonal layout set directly on the rock, surrounded by an eight-metre-wide moat. Access is via a wooden bridge leading to a door adorned with baroque motifs. Inside, a central column supports the artillery vault, while a spiral staircase links the different levels. Today, it is part of Ciutadella’s historical and cultural heritage.

Between Bishops, Kings and Merchants

Ciutadella also served as a centre of civil and ecclesiastical power. The majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria (4), built atop an old mosque and consecrated in the 14th century, stands proudly at the city’s heart—witness to the island’s layered spiritual history.

Nearby, palaces like Torre Saura (5) or Casa Olives (6) reflect the wealth once held by the local aristocracy and clergy, who for centuries shaped the island’s politics, economy and society.

(4) Santa Maria Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Menorca, is one of the island’s most important heritage landmarks and a fine example of Catalan Gothic. Built following the conquest of 1287 and declared a cathedral in 1795, it features a single lofty nave with elegant ribbed vaults. Over its long history, it suffered two major sackings—in 1558 and during the Spanish Civil War—which led to several restorations, including the addition of a neoclassical façade. A major renovation in 1986 enhanced its natural light and restored the original 18th-century choir. Its standout features include several chapels and a former Islamic minaret.

(5) Torre Saura Palace, located in Ciutadella’s Plaça des Born, is the city’s most imposing palatial residence and a hallmark of civil neoclassicism in Menorca. Built in 1839 by architect Ildefonso Hernández, it occupies most of a city block and remains in private hands. In the 19th century, its façade was modified to align with the nearby Salort Palace, adding a new wing that reshaped the building’s external appearance. The main entrance, on Carrer Major des Born, leads to a staircase that connects with noble rooms and an elegant corner gallery. The original stables and coach houses are still preserved.

(6) Casa Olives, also known as Casa Olivar, is a landmark noble residence in Ciutadella’s old town. Located in Plaça de la Catedral, it was built in 1633 by Bernat Olives and shares the block with Torre Saura Palace. The building’s symmetrical façade and well-balanced interior layout are typical of aristocratic architecture, featuring a central hallway, a skylit staircase, and a large reception hall surrounded by rooms furnished with English, French and Isabeline pieces. The house is notable for its painted ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and a terrace that enhances its overall grandeur. The façade, likely renovated in the 18th century, includes classic marès stonework, a large cornice and a decorative pediment.

A Historic Heart That Still Beats

To walk through Ciutadella today is to step into Menorca’s living history. Its historic centre (7)—officially recognised as a site of cultural heritage—retains its original charm. Narrow streets, shaded arcades and traditional markets create an atmosphere frozen in time, yet open to the world.

Just a few steps from the Open Menorca ATP Challenger 100 courts lie the Plaça des Born (8), once a medieval jousting ground and now the city’s social core, and the Mercat Municipal (9), where locals and visitors alike gather daily to taste, trade and connect.

(7) Ciutadella’s old town is one of Menorca’s top attractions. Its streets are lined with many of the city’s historic buildings and landmarks, including the popular Ses Voltes arcade and lively squares filled with shops, cafés and restaurants that capture the rhythm of local life. The Contramurada, a wide avenue that encircles the historic centre, marks the boundaries of the former walled city until the 19th century. Today, it serves as a symbolic frontier between the old and new Ciutadella—two urban identities distinguished by their architecture and atmosphere. A place where the island’s past still lives on.

(8) Plaça des Born is one of Ciutadella’s most iconic spaces and the gateway to its old quarter. Once a military parade ground, it now serves as the city’s cultural and social heart. At its centre stands a 22-metre-high obelisk commemorating Ciutadella’s resistance during the 1558 Turkish attack. The square hosts major events, including the vibrant Sant Joan Festival, which brings it to life each June. It’s surrounded by landmark buildings such as the Town Hall, Teatre des Born, several historic palaces, the Church of San Francisco and the old Post Office. A must-visit to grasp Ciutadella’s spirit.

(9) Located in Plaça de la Llibertat, right in the heart of Ciutadella’s historic quarter, the Mercat Municipal—locally known as the Mercat des Peix—is a symbol of everyday island life. More than a market, it offers an authentic experience where locals and visitors mingle among stalls selling fresh fish, seasonal produce and Menorcan specialities beneath historic arcades. The friendly, bustling atmosphere reflects the true essence of the island. The best time to visit is early morning, when the market is at its liveliest and the arcaded bars serve up breakfast and homemade tapas. A vibrant spot full of island character.

From Past to Present: Heritage That Inspires the Future

Ciutadella’s rich heritage isn’t just a window to the past—it’s a foundation for the future. A city that champions culture, sport and sustainability, it embodies the spirit of the tournament.

It’s no coincidence that the Open Menorca ATP Challenger 100 chose Ciutadella as its home. Here, every match is framed by centuries of history. Every serve echoes between stone bastions and whispers of maritime battles. This isn’t just tennis. It’s a fully immersive experience—where sport meets story.

Ready to Experience History… and Tennis?

In 2026, don’t just come for top-level tennis. Walk the paths of pirates and nobles. Explore fortresses that once defended the island. Watch the sun set over the same harbour that once launched kings and crusaders.

All this—just steps from the Open Menorca ATP Challenger 100.

Ciutadella awaits. With history. With tennis. With soul.