Minorca Cathedral

The construction of the cathedral was initiated by Alfons III of Catalonia-Aragon, the conqueror of Menorca, on the site of a former Arab mosque in Ciutadella. Work began under his successor, James II, and was completed in 1362 under Peter IV. The foundations of the minaret were used for the bell tower, which features a ramp without steps. The Marès stone (limestone) of the island was used as building material. In 1558, the church suffered damage during a Turkish raid. After repairs, the apse collapsed in a fire in 1626, leading to a more robust reconstruction. In 1795, after Menorca was returned to Spain, Santa Maria de Ciutadella was elevated to the status of a cathedral. Pope Pius XII granted it the title of basilica in 1953.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria de Ciutadella is located in the city of Ciutadella on the island of Menorca, part of the Balearic Islands in Spain. It stands at an elevation of approximately 25 meters above sea level.

The cathedral can be explored today. It continues to serve as an active sacred building and is a cultural and religious center.