Next to the walls of the city of Ibiza and almost hidden away, you will find the seafaring neighbourhoods of La Marina and Sa Penya, which came about as a result of the busy port activity during the Middle Ages.
In the past, port workers and sailors built their homes here. Today, these areas are home to a number of monuments, museums and places of interest, such as the Mercat Vell, the Casa Broner and the church of Sant Elm, among many others.
Its network of narrow streets, like a continuation of the historic centre, offers some of the city’s liveliest atmosphere. During the winter months, the influx of tourists is considerably reduced, allowing for these parts of the city to recover their daily routine and quietness.
A stroll through the neighbourhood of La Marina
This area runs from the foot of the city walls to the quayside of the port of Ibiza. In fact, it is the wall that separates the neighbourhood of La Marina from Dalt Vila, which is why you will find some of the entrances to the precinct here, such as the Portal de ses Taules, the most important of the five existing ones.
This area is full of tourists, perhaps attracted by its streets full of history, with whitewashed houses and full of bars, restaurants and shops. In summer, they stay open until midnight and offer a multicultural atmosphere. You can find clothes shops selling exclusive brands, Ibiza-style clothing, decoration and handicraft shops, among others. The street market takes place every night, along different streets, from May to October.
This old fishermen’s quarter, which once suffered constant pirate raids, is now one of the liveliest areas of the city.
It is well worth taking a stroll through this area and be surprised by its fun, colourful and lively atmosphere of artisans, artists and street drag queens.
You cannot miss the Mercat Vell, the old market located under the city walls in front of the Portal de ses Taules where peasants used to sell their products. You can still find some stalls to this day.
Behind the market you will find the church of Sant Elm, also known as the parish church of Sant Salvador de La Marina. It was built in the 15th century as the chapel of the sailors’ guild, although it was sacked by Turkish corsairs at the end of the 16th century and completely destroyed during the Spanish Civil War. It was later rebuilt in 1947.
Enjoy the charm of Sa Penya
You will find this old fishermen’s quarter at the foot of the Santa Llúcia bastion. Its small squares and labyrinthine, picturesque narrow streets are very typical of Ibiza, full of beautiful spots where you can stop to take photographs. Its steep streets climb up the cliffs with fabulous views of the port.
The lower part of the neighbourhood, lined with bars and nightclubs, is home to the city’s gay area. With its trendy shops, tattoo studios and charming cafés, it’s perfect for strolling around while enjoying its flamboyant and bohemian atmosphere.
We recommend a stroll along the main street, Carrer de la Mare de Déu, which forms the border between the Sa Penya and La Marina neighbourhoods. You should also visit the Broner House, the Sa Pedrera Craft Centre and the Sa Torre square and its breath-taking views of the sea.
