Here stands the Monumento a los Corsarios. This stone obelisk is more than just a monument. It’s a tribute from the people of Ibiza to the brave corsairs. These privateers defended the coastline from pirate threats. They were licensed by the Spanish crown in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The Monumento a los Corsarios stands proudly in the harbor. You will find it at Avenida de las Andanas. Look towards Placa d’Antoni Riquer. This small square honors Antonio Riquer a legendary Ibizan corsair.
Riquer captained the schooner San Antonio and Santa Isabela. His ship prevailed against the Felicity. Felicity was captained by the infamous pirate Miguel “El Papa” Novelli.
Pause for a moment and imagine the scene. It was 1906. Islanders laid the first stone for this monument. This was on the 100th anniversary of Riquer’s victory. Years later in 1915 the Monumento a los Corsarios was inaugurated. Catalan architect Augusto Font created it. He wanted to create a permanent reminder of the corsair’s contribution to Ibiza.
The Pitiusan corsairs patrolled the Mediterranean. They had an agreement with the Spanish crown. They fought North African raiders. Later they fought the British and French. In exchange for one-fifth of the booty they defended Ibiza and Formentera for centuries.
Consider this fact the Monumento a los Corsarios is unique. Pirates were often rejected. This makes it a sculptural curiosity. There is only one other monument to pirates in the world. It is in Plymouth England. It honors Francis Drake. The monument to the corsairs recalls Ibiza’s history. It is a permanent reminder that Ibiza is not only an island of fishermen but also of Corsairs. So remember the Monumento a los Corsarios. It represents courage and the defense of Ibiza.