Heritage Recovery in Sa Caleta: Archaeology and Military History

Ibiza is restoring Sa Caleta Phoenician Settlement and its coastal battery, to be open to the public

What does it consist of?

On the southwest coast of Ibiza, a restoration project is underway that focuses on two heritage assets: the Sa Caleta Phoenician Settlement, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the N-52 coastal battery, a 20th-century relic. The goal is to build a visitor centre at both sites with public access.

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Data

PROJECT TITLE IN THE CALL
Project to rehabilitate the Phoenician settlement and the anti-aircraft battery on the coast of sa Caleta (Sant Josep de sa Talaia) to prepare them for visits and to create an interpretation centre.
LOCATION
Ibiza (Sant Josep de Sa Talaia)
Entity submitting the PROJECT
Consell Insular d'Eivissa
Entity that executes the project
Consell Insular d'Eivissa
Project code
ITS2019-095
Total project amount
683.651 €
ITS granted amount
583.651 €
Executed amount
254.456 €
Call year
2019
Execution status
In execution
Purpose
Cultural heritage
Budget execution
Executed: 43.6%
Last data request
06.05.2024

The project

The site of Sa Caleta, in Sant Josep de sa Talaia, is home to some of the most important archaeological remains on Ibiza: an ancient Phoenician settlement dating back to the 7th century BC. Meanwhile, the site also guards the remains of the N-52 coastal battery, military artillery infrastructure from the last century, declared a Cultural Interest Asset. The restoration project, partly funded through sustainable tourism tax, aims to protect and explain both elements through an integrated museum space.

With a total investment of €683,651, the project is making progress through restoration works at the settlement, including areas currently covered for security reasons, and restoration of key structures at the battery, such as tunnels, gun ports and the command centre. The Island Council of Ibiza is leading the work, which is expected to be completed in 2025.

The second phase will see the opening of a visitor centre in the restored former military barracks. It will have displays, informative videos and educational materials, offering context about the island’s Phoenician past and the defensive role of the site during the 20th century. The most unique elements include a full-scale model of a Phoenician house.

Beyond restoring and improving a unique space, the project seeks to strengthen the connection between heritage and citizens. The proposed museum, focused on historical knowledge and educational outreach, blends into the setting of the Parc Natural de ses Salines, reinforcing its connection to culture and the environment.