Ibiza is an island that holds many layers of history beneath its surface. While it is widely recognised for its stunning beaches and world-famous nightlife, it is also a land steeped in stories of ancient civilisations, forgotten traditions, and natural wonders that have shaped its identity over the centuries.
From the Phoenicians to the Punics and Romans, each culture that settled on this Mediterranean island left behind traces of its existence, buried in the earth and waiting to be discovered. Exploring Ibiza beyond its picturesque coastline means stepping into a past filled with archaeological treasures, age-old industries like salt production, and culinary traditions that have withstood the test of time. For those seeking a deeper connection with the island, uncovering its hidden depths provides an unforgettable journey through time.
The overlooked archaeological gem of Sant Josep
While Ibiza is well known for its stunning coastline, it is also home to remarkable archaeological sites that tell the story of its ancient inhabitants. One of the most intriguing yet underappreciated locations is Ses Païsses de Cala d’Hort, a Punic-Roman necropolis in the municipality of Sant Josep de sa Talaia. Dating back to the 5th century BC, this historical site offers a rare opportunity to step into the past and explore a world shaped by Phoenicians, Punics, and Romans.
Unlike the more famous Puig des Molins necropolis or the Sa Caleta settlement, Ses Païsses remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. It was first unearthed in 1917, revealing 18 burial structures. However, over time, excavation efforts waned, and today only 11 remain. What makes this site unique is the coexistence of both a villa and a necropolis, illustrating the evolution of life and death over a span of more than a thousand years.
Ses Païsses site has gained attention in recent years, with local authorities working to bring its historical significance to light. A 3D reconstruction now helps visitors visualise what life was like in this settlement, including its wine and oil production facilities. Among the artefacts found here is a green jasper scarab depicting the deity Bes, a symbol now displayed in a local museum.
Ibiza’s white gold: the story of its salt flats
Beyond its ancient ruins, Sant Josep is also home to another legacy that has shaped Ibiza’s identity for centuries—its salt production. Known as ‘white gold’, salt has played an essential role in the island’s economy and culture. Even today, more than 50,000 tonnes of salt are harvested annually, with a significant portion exported to the Faroe Islands for fish preservation.
To honour this deep-rooted tradition, the town hosts the Feria de la Sal (Salt Fair) every September. This event is a tribute to the island’s historical salt industry, featuring a symbolic lighting of bonfires reminiscent of the signals that once marked the beginning of the salt harvest. Visitors can witness the age-old process of manual salt collection, participate in cooking workshops, and even experience wellness treatments that incorporate salt-based therapies.
Salt extraction in Ibiza dates back to the Phoenician era, but it was the Romans and later the Moors who refined the process by developing salt flats into structured compartments. Today, these shallow pools reflect breathtaking pink hues under the Mediterranean sun, creating a mesmerising landscape often dotted with elegant flamingos wading through the waters.
A culinary finale: the flavours of the sea
No journey through Ibiza’s rich heritage would be complete without indulging in its traditional cuisine. To round off a day of historical exploration, there’s no better place than Port Balansat in Port de Sant Miquel or S’Espartar in Sant Josep, where visitors can savour bullit de peix, a signature Ibizan seafood dish served with velvety alioli sauce. This meal encapsulates the island’s deep connection to the sea, a tradition passed down through generations.
Ibiza’s appeal extends far beyond its summer allure. Beneath its surface lies a world of ancient cultures, time-honoured traditions, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. Whether wandering through a forgotten necropolis, witnessing the craftsmanship of salt harvesting, or indulging in authentic local cuisine, visitors can experience a side of Ibiza that few ever take the time to discover. These hidden treasures shine brightly, offering a journey through time that is just as mesmerising as its world-famous sunsets.
