Ibiza has history in abundance. An island that once possessed one of the richest coastal Mediterranean cities saw the arrival of Carthaginians, Romans and Moors. Then there was the arrival of the Christians, which saw the island not only lose its riches and position as an important trading post but also ushered in a period of pirates' raids and a much simpler way of living.
All this and more can be found in one of our selection of museums. If you need extra more inspiration, head to our galleries and museums' page.
Archeological Museum, Ibiza Town
Not one but two museums in two different sites. The first of the Archeological Museums, in Puig des Molins, occupies the site of a Carthaginian necropolis that is considered to be the best preserved in the western Mediterranean. It's where these early seventh century BCE settlers, who gave the island its name, buried their nobles - you can still visit their tombs today.
This excellent museum and its sister site in the fortified old town Dalt Vila, display a range of Carthaginian and Roman artefacts such as earthenware, statuettes and jewellery unearthed over time by archeologists on Ibiza and Formentera. Two places where you can truly live and breathe Ibiza's storied past.
Opening times: Puig des Molins and Dalt Vila (The Dalt Vila Museum is temporarily closed for renovations.)
Admission: free
Can Ros Ethnographic Museum, Santa Eulalia
This lovingly restored rural house is located beside the Puig de Missa church in Santa Eulalia. It's cool interior allows you to learn about the rural way of life on Ibiza long before the advent of tourism.
At Can Ros, you will encounter many examples of utensils and farming equipment showing a more pastoral, self-sufficient way of life. You can also see examples of traditional dress and jewellery, musical instruments, and weapons that would most likely have been used to protect the islanders from pirate raids.
Admission: small fee
Contemporary Art Museum, Dalt Vila, Ibiza Town
The Contemporary Art Museum (MACE) houses a splendid art collection featuring works of artists from all over the world. There are several large, airy galleries set over four levels in a building that used to be Ibiza Town's military storeroom. As well as pictures and sculptures by artists from Madrid to Malmo, there is a good deal of work by young local artists.
There's a permanent collection and changing exhibitions that go beyond the medium of canvas, with video and photography art. It's an inviting space for when you want to escape the heat of summer or the cooler days of winter.
Admission: free
Puget Museum, Dalt Vila, Ibiza Town
Set in a fine old palacio, the Puget Museum, which also belongs to the MACE, shows a permanent collection of both artists' oil paintings and watercolours that depict early to mid-twentieth century Ibizan life and landscapes. It affords the visitor a visual glimpse of the traditional rural life on the island during that time, showing interesting themes such as Ibiza's ancient customs and the role of women as the centre of the family. Look out for its temporary installations during the summer.
Admission: free
MADINA YABISA INTERPRETATION CENTRE, Dalt Vila, Ibiza town
Located just in front of Ibiza’s Cathedral, Madina Yasiba was once the headquarters of the Courts of Justice. Entirely modernised, the museum uses audiovisual technology to provide visitors with an insight into the city’s history, in particular, the Islamic period.
You can also see the interior of a tower of the old Arab fortress and remains of the wall.
Admission: small fee, children and senior citizens free of charge
Dalt Vila, Ibiza Town
Not really a museum, but go with us on this one. The medieval citadel of Dalt Vila, situated high above the town, is perhaps one of the best-preserved open-air museums in the Balearics. It's where the Carthaginians made their main settlement on the island and is brimming with history.
Once inside, you'll see plaques guiding you to various places of interest. Here you can see old Roman statues, original canons, the remains of a Moorish wall, picture-postcard houses, the cathedral and some amazing views of the surrounding sea. In the summer, you can enjoy a pit stop at a cafe or restaurant before continuing on and losing yourself in the winding atmospheric streets.
Opening times: always open
Admission: free
Our tip: A wonderful way to discover the secrets and legends of Dalt Vila is with Ibiza Eco Activities, who offer walking tours and workshops for all ages.
