Plaça des Born Ciutadella
Historic heart of Ciutadella, framed by neoclassical palaces and a striking obelisk, famous for Sant Joan festivities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Epic Sant Joan festival
Plaça des Born Ciutadella
Best Time
Epic Sant Joan festival

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic heart of Ciutadella, framed by neoclassical palaces and a striking obelisk, famous for Sant Joan festivities.
"The square truly comes alive during the Sant Joan festivities, a spectacle of horses and riders!"
🎯 Catch Sant Joan Magic
Plan your visit for June to witness the incredible 'caragol des Born' during the Sant Joan festivities!
🚶♀️ Enjoy Pedestrian Zone
From July, the square is pedestrian-friendly. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere and explore on foot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sant Joan Festivities
Plaça des Born
Witness the spectacular 'caragol des Born' with horses and riders during the Sant Joan festival. A truly electrifying cultural spectacle.

Palau Torre-Saura
North side of the square
Admire the neoclassical architecture of this historic 19th-century palace, a grand backdrop to the square.

Central Obelisk
Center of the square
The imposing obelisk stands as a central monument, a focal point for gatherings and events.

Folkloric Performances
Plaça des Born
Experience traditional Menorcan culture with folk dances and music, often performed in historical attire.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Festivities
Pedestrian Zone & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch Sant Joan Magic
Plan your visit for June to witness the incredible 'caragol des Born' during the Sant Joan festivities!
🚶♀️ Enjoy Pedestrian Zone
From July, the square is pedestrian-friendly. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere and explore on foot.
🎶 Summer Folk Music
Look out for traditional folk music and dance performances, especially in August evenings.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The obelisk and surrounding architecture make for stunning photos, especially during events.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch Sant Joan Magic
Plan your visit for June to witness the incredible 'caragol des Born' during the Sant Joan festivities!
🚶♀️ Enjoy Pedestrian Zone
From July, the square is pedestrian-friendly. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere and explore on foot.
🎶 Summer Folk Music
Look out for traditional folk music and dance performances, especially in August evenings.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The obelisk and surrounding architecture make for stunning photos, especially during events.
🛍️ Artisan Markets
Check for artisan markets held in the square, offering unique local crafts and goods.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaça des Born is a beautiful and historic central square in Ciutadella, praised for its elegant architecture and role as a hub for cultural events, especially the vibrant Sant Joan festival. Visitors appreciate its pedestrian-friendly nature and the lively atmosphere during summer evenings. Some find it can get very crowded during peak festival times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaça des Born is centrally located in Ciutadella. If you're arriving by car, note that parking is now relocated from the square itself to areas like Plaça des Pins, as it's a pedestrian-preferred zone from July onwards.
Walking from other parts of Ciutadella is easy and recommended.Parking in Plaça des Born has been removed and replaced with pedestrian access. You'll find parking options in nearby streets and squares, such as Plaça des Pins.
While there isn't a direct bus stop within the square itself, Ciutadella has a bus station that connects to various parts of the island. From the station, it's a short walk to Plaça des Born.
Absolutely! Plaça des Born is a beautiful, walkable area. Since it's a pedestrian-preferred zone, it's ideal for exploring on foot and soaking in the atmosphere.
Many visitors find that exploring Ciutadella on foot is the best way to discover its charm. Plaça des Born is a key landmark easily accessible from the historic center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaça des Born is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As a public square, Plaça des Born is accessible 24/7. However, specific events or performances may have their own timings.
While entry to the square is free, some special events like concerts or festivals might have associated ticket costs. It's best to check local event listings for details.
The square is generally flat and accessible, especially since it's a pedestrian zone. However, accessibility for specific events or surrounding buildings may vary.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon outside of major festival times. Evenings during summer can be lively but pleasant.
📸 📸 Photography
The central obelisk, the neoclassical Palau Torre-Saura, and the surrounding historic buildings offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the atmosphere during events like Sant Joan for dynamic shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed during events. However, be mindful of performers and other attendees, and avoid using flash during sensitive moments.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the square is still picturesque.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for personal photography. However, commercial photography or filming might require permits. Always be respectful of private property and individuals.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a DSLR, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of the square and its architecture.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
While the square itself is more of a public space, you'll find numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants lining its perimeter and in the immediate surrounding streets, offering local Menorcan cuisine.
Expect traditional Menorcan dishes, fresh seafood, tapas, and local pastries. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching.
Plaça des Born is primarily a public square, but you'll find artisan markets and small boutiques in the adjacent streets selling local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Artisan markets are often held in Plaça des Born itself during certain times of the year or in nearby squares. Keep an eye out for signs or local event schedules.
Don't miss trying 'Caldereta de Llagosta' (lobster stew), 'Ensaïmada' (sweet pastry), and local cheeses. Many places also serve delicious tapas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds within the square itself, the surrounding streets offer cafes where families can take a break. The historical context of the square and the vibrant atmosphere during events like Sant Joan can also be educational and exciting for children, though the main festival can be quite crowded and intense.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
If you're visiting during festival times, the energy of events like Sant Joan can be exhilarating. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the day or on a weekday evening when it's less crowded. It's a perfect spot to people-watch and soak in the local Menorcan culture.
🛍️ Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, opt for picnics with local produce from nearby markets or enjoy affordable tapas at less tourist-centric bars just off the main square. Look out for free cultural events like folk music performances that are often held here during the summer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spectacle of Sant Joan
Beyond the 'caragol,' the festival includes parades, traditional music, and folk dancing, often featuring participants in historical costumes. The square becomes a vibrant stage for these cultural expressions, offering a glimpse into Menorcan heritage. If you're planning a trip specifically for Sant Joan, book accommodations well in advance as Ciutadella becomes very popular.
Even outside of the main festival, Plaça des Born hosts various cultural events throughout the summer, including folk music performances and artisan markets. These events provide a more relaxed yet equally authentic experience of local traditions.
Architectural Charm and Pedestrian Focus
In recent years, there's been a conscious effort to prioritize pedestrians in Plaça des Born. Since July, the square has been designated a pedestrian-preferred zone, with parking areas relocated to nearby squares like Plaça des Pins. This change enhances the visitor experience, allowing for more relaxed exploration and a greater appreciation of the square's ambiance without the intrusion of traffic.
This shift towards a pedestrian-friendly space makes Plaça des Born an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, enjoying a coffee at one of the surrounding cafes, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere. It encourages visitors to engage more deeply with the urban environment and appreciate the architectural beauty at a slower pace.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit