The fortress in the north of Ibiza
Perched atop the hill of Puig de Missa de Sant Miquel stands one of the island’s oldest fortress churches, a solid, white watchtower that’s impossible to miss on a route through the north of Ibiza on the way to Cala Benirrás or Port de Sant Miquel. If you haven’t visited it yet, be sure to include it in your itinerary and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area from the path that winds its way up the hill to the church.
The origins of this church, dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, date back to the 14th century. Together with the churches of Sant Jordi, Sant Antoni and Santa Eulària, it forms part of Ibiza’s group of fortress churches. It was built to monitor the landings of Barbary pirates via the port of Sant Miquel – one of the few accessible points on the island’s north coast – thereby defending the route to the town of Eivissa.
Designated a Site of Cultural Interest, one of its distinctive features compared to other churches on the island is its ‘T’-shaped cross-plan, with two side chapels added in the 16th century, which preserve simple frescoes featuring geometric and floral motifs. Inside, a recently restored 19th-century frieze also stands out; on one wall it depicts the capture of the British ship Felicity by Ibizan privateers, whilst on the other it shows a scene in which a parish priest visits the home of a dying man.
Any suggestions? From June to September, ball pagès performances are held in the church courtyard on Thursday afternoons.
