Located just 15 km northeast of Eivissa-Vila, the photogenic capital of Ibiza, Santa Eulalia del Rio has been a mecca for painters and writers coming here in search of inspiration for years. The town has preserved a lot of the traditional way of life and at the same time is well known for its unique cosmopolitan atmosphere. In addition the town lies close to one of the most impressive natural attractions of Ibiza - the hill called Puig de Missa.
So, where to start exploring the area during your holidays in Santa Eulalia? Without a doubt, the 15th century hilltop Church of Puig de Missa tops the list of things to see. Then the Church of Nostra Mare de Jesús follows. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries the building is an excellent example of Gothic architecture. Also you must visit the Plaza de España, which is studded with fountains and palm trees. The predominantly white-coloured square is a sort of miniature version of Ibiza town. Moreover, there is a monolith placed in memory of the residents, who rescued a group of castaways in 1913.
At the same time, do not miss all the museums on offer in Santa Eulalia del Rio. Among which the Barrau Museum located on the Puig de Missa and dedicated to the work of Catalan Impressionist painter Laureà Barrau i Bunyol (1863-1957) deserves a special mention. Barrau was one of the best artists at really capturing the luminosity of Ibiza. Barrau settled permanently on the island 1912.
The Ethnological Museum of Ibiza and Formentera is also well worth visiting. Opened in 1994, it explains the traditional way of life of the inhabitants of the two islands. In the museum, you can see farm implements, clothing, jewellery, musical instruments and weapons and get an idea of how the everyday country life was in the past.
Finally, planning your Ibiza holidays, include a visit to the surrounding towns to your itinerary. Especially Sant Joan de Labritja, one of the most traditional towns in Ibiza, and Sant Miquel de Balansat, which is one of the oldest parishes on the island.
And without a doubt, one should visit the island’s capital, Eivissa-Vila (also known as Ibiza town), whose old town (a district known as Dalt Vila) was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999.