From our blog

The myths and stories of Ibiza

March 25th, 2022

Around the Pitiusas, especially Ibiza and Es Vedra, many myths have held rock solid for decades.

The reputation is full of secrets and mysterious theories that range from pure wishful thinking to a possibility of truth.

Es Vedra:

This uninhabited limestone island is 400 metres high and lies two kilometres off the west coast of Ibiza, opposite the bay of Cala d’Hort. Many visitors to the island come here specifically to see the impressive cliffs, and there are many beautiful viewpoints in the area to see this majestic island. There are many stories and legends surrounding Es Vedrà. Most notably, this rock is the third most magnetic point on earth (after the North Pole and the Bermuda Triangle). Although this has not been confirmed, there are reports that the navigation equipment near Es Vedrà no longer works properly. However, if you tell locals the story of the location of the third strongest magnet on earth, they will earn questioning looks or laughter.

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Magnetic or not – the rocky island will impress anyone who has experienced it up close. Its majestic rise from the water exudes great tranquillity and enchanting magic. Es Vedrà also inspired filmmakers, and in the 1958 Hollywood film South Pacific, the rock represented the volcanic island of Hali in Bali. Myths and legends have entwined since ancient times, as in Homer’s Odyssey, where sirens and sea nymphs try to lure Odysseus from his ship. It is said that the Punic goddess Tanit was born there and her symbols can be found all over Ibiza.

It is also said that the limestones of Es Vedra were used for the pyramids of Egypt, because a lot of energy is stored in them, comparable to Stonehenge or the pyramids of the Easter Islands.

The story that goes furthest is that Es Vedra is the tip of the sunken city of Atlantis. In the 1960s, the nearby Sa Pedrera quarry was also named Atlantis by the island’s hippies.

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Stories of UFOs sighted near Es Vedra and reports from fishermen support this theory. Supposedly it is a station under water or inside the rock.

Whether any of this is true or not, what is certain is that many believe in the positive, healing and inspiring energy that emanates from Es Vedrà.

Experience the rock for yourself and decide which of these theories are most believable to you but surely you can take some of the positive energy with you.

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Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a monument to time and space, the largest sundial designed by Australian artist Andrew Rogers. The stunning open-air cliff monument consists of 13 massive basalt columns arranged in a semicircle on the edge of the cliff above the small Cala Llentia. This work of art is reminiscent of the world-famous British Stonehenge and is therefore also known as the “Stonehenge of Ibiza”. In the centre of the semicircle is the largest column, 20 m high, covered with 23-carat gold to reflect the sun. There are two myths about this place. One said the exceptionally high magnetism was at work, another said the monument was built to guide UFOs. We only stumbled across this spectacular place when we accidentally took the wrong route on our scooter. So the diversions is worth it!

The easiest way to admire this work of art is to drive to Cala Conta or Cala Tarida. From there, follow the signs to Cala Codolar and stop at the beach, where there are toilets and a nice restaurant. From here it’s about a 1 km walk up the hill. My tip: Stop by and enjoy the spectacular sunset as the monument glows in beautiful warm colours.

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The secret doors of Cala Llentia

Right next to the Space-Time Monument (Stonehenge) you will find another historical sight! If you walk east from there for about 5 minutes, you will find two spectacular gates surrounded by the beautiful nature of Ibiza. Then, just before the sun sets, take a short walk to the historical monuments of Stonehenge and the Secret Gate. These places mean real magic where I can recharge and relax. Don’t miss the mysterious and magical side of Ibiza and make it a must on your next Ibiza holiday!

Unfortunately, this place is not quite what it used to be.

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Right next to the Space-Time Monument (Stonehenge) you will find another historical sight! If you walk east from there for about 5 minutes, you will find two spectacular gates surrounded by the beautiful nature of Ibiza. Then, just before the sun sets, take a short walk to the historical monuments of Stonehenge and the Secret Gate. These places mean real magic where I can recharge and relax. Don’t miss the mysterious and magical side of Ibiza and make it a must on your next Ibiza holiday!

Unfortunately, this place is not quite what it used to be.

A few months ago, however, the metre-high and ornately decorated wooden doors were stolen by unknown persons. A user on the social network Facebook publicised the theft by saying, “Don’t bother looking for the doors. They are gone.” Only the frames are still standing, as can be seen in his photos on the Ibiza Facebook group.

Popularly known as “Puertas de Cala Llentia”, the doors built between the bays of Cala Codolar and Cala Llentia near the estate of Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté have always been a mystery.

Aerial View Of The Island Of Sa Conillera, Near St. Antoni De Portmany

Sa Conillera – the birthplace of Hannibal?

According to legend, Sa Conillera is the birthplace of the ancient Carthaginian commander Hannibal, who later almost, but only almost, succeeded in defeating Rome. Legend has it that his mother was traveling in a ship, heavily pregnant. The ship was caught in a storm that threw it off course. Before the ship could head for its actual destination, labor pains set in. The only piece of land that could be reached was Sa Conillera. There, Hannibal was finally born in a cave in the cliffs.

As beautiful as this legend may be, historical research agrees that Hannibal was born in Carthage.

On the other hand, there is no doubt that the island was a dangerous obstacle for ancient seafaring. The fishermen of our time occasionally had in their nets, in addition to fish, Roman amphorae taken from sunken ships. Today, a lighthouse on the island warns of the dangers of the waters.

The myths and stories of Ibiza