PORTAL DE SES TAUlES IBIZA

Close to the market square of Sa Penya, the oldest section of the town outside the old walls is the most imposing of the gates into the old town. Its name dates from medieval times, when there was a moat outside the gateway, the drawbridge across it being made of stone slabs. The Inscription above the gate notes that Felipe (Philip II was responsible for its construction in 1585. The portal is decorated with the king's coat farms and a pair of Roman portal statues unearthed during the construction work. The inscription on one of the statues suggests it was originally raised to the goddess Juno.

Passing through the gateway (note the thickness of the wall: Charles V ordered that they be 2m thick) you will reach the Patio de Armas, the arsenal square. This beautifully colonnaded square has recently been restored, as has the archway that connects it to the equally delightful Plaza de Vila. The restoration work is excellent and the squares are a delight, but there are those who fear that the beautifying of the old town and the exodus of local folk who cannot afford the increased house prices will eventually mean a loss of character for Dalt Vila.