IBIZA's history begins in 1600 B.C. After being colonised by the Phoenicians (8th. century B.C.), the Carthaginians founded "EBUSUS" in 654 B.C. From there a succession of invasions or passages of different civilisations followed, including the Romans (2nd century B.C.), Vandals (455), Byzantines (534), Moors in the 8th and 9th Centuries and the Normans until 1235. This is the date of the island's incorporation into Christianity, after the Catalan conquest, which brought an end to the scourge of piracy. The insecurity of these strategically important islands (military, natural and mining activities) made the population built towers and ramparts along the coastline and take shelter in their fortified churches. The ancient goddess "Tanit" is the symbol of Ibiza. Numerous testimonies (16th century walls, temples, catacombs etc...) remain from the colourful history of the islands which today, are a haven of peace and tranquillity. IBIZA and FORMENTERA, are the most southern of the Balearic Isles, facing North East/South West. The island of IBIZA stretches over 48 kms and has 2 mountain ranges. The highest point is the ATALAYA of San Jose, at 476 metres. The remainder of the island is made up of fertile alluvial plains, wooded with Mediterranean plants and trees, as well as pines, almonds, figs and orange-trees. In contrast, the south of the island, since ancient times, has been divided into salt-pans. The 500 kms of coastline is generally rocky, but has numerous sandy coves and very beautiful beaches. The geographic position of the "Pitiusas" islands ensures a temperate climate throughout the year. The influence and close proximity of Africa accounts for our mild winters. The summers are dry, but without excessive heat, thanks to the gentle winds. One of the main climatic features is the small variation in the temperature between day and night and between the different seasons. As for rainfall, the average is 350 mms per year, with 4 mms in July and August! The sun shines for 2900 hours (60%). The autonomous province of the Balearic Isles has the highest Gross Interior Product per inhabitant in Spain and the longest life expectancy!! | 
