The Ibiza Town Hall has announced its participation in a transnational candidature for the UNESCO which brings together cities of the Spanish Mediterranean with historic fortifications built between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries. This initiative seeks to highlight the heritage and architectural richness of these constructions, framed in the defensive context of the Mediterranean during that period. The project, coordinated by UNESCO expert Jordi Tresserras, initially involves the participation of cities such as Tortosa, Cartagena, Palma and Es Castell (Menorca), as well as Ibiza. During the presentation of the draft of the candidacy, the mayor of the Ibizan capital, Rafael Triguero, stressed the importance of this initiative: “It is a unique opportunity to be part of a project that unites territories and puts in value the diversity of our heritage under the support of UNESCO”. Triguero also pointed out that the transnational nature of the proposal responds to current UNESCO criteria, which strengthens the candidacy’s chances of success. The ultimate goal is for this project to be admitted to the Transcultura program, developed by UNESCO and financed by the European Union.
Dalt Vila, a Renaissance jewel
Ibiza will contribute to the candidacy the fortified enclosure of Dalt Vila, built in the 16th century under the reign of Philip II. Initially designed by the Italian engineer Giovanni Battista Calvi and later enlarged by Jacobo Paleazzo Fratin, Dalt Vila is an exceptional example of Renaissance construction techniques applied to defense. This enclosure, which preserves its original layout, was conceived as one of the most advanced bastions of the Western Mediterranean in its time.
Next steps and transnational reach
Currently in its initial phase, the candidacy seeks to broaden its scope to include countries such as Algeria, Italy and Malta, reinforcing its transnational character. Each municipality is preparing a list of heritage elements to be evaluated by the UNESCO Heritage Council.
