The Es Cuieram Cave and the Punic shrine for the goddess Tanoit within was discovered in 1907 by some of the Ebusitana Archeology society members.The chronology of the temple is determined to be somewhere between the end of the 5th century to the 2nd century B.C. although it is not certain.It consists of a huge domed roof and two levels. The lower level comprises of a flat rock that may have been used for sacrifices. The archaeological finds bear testimony to ancient inhabitants who liver here even prior to the Greek invasion. It is believed that in ancient times reed plantations would have stretched right upto the sea. It is also believed that the cave was a venue where ancient funeral rites were performed to invoke blessings for the dead to have a safe passage to the after life. Excavations revealed about 600 figures out of terracotta, a further 1000 odd figureheads and ceramic fragments. The most recognizable bell shaped figures are feminine with some statues having a covering of a fine layer of gold on their faces.Some of the cave?s discoveries have been transferred to the Museo Monografico del Puig des Molins at Dalt Vila in Ibiza for safe keeping

Location
The cave can be reached by following the signs on the Cala de San Vicente road situated in the north of the island in the San Juan area. Part of the trip can be by vehicle but the last section has to be trekked on foot. The historical remains of the cave and its Carthaginian temple inside has made this a popular area.

Attraction nearby
A long walk past the caves will bring you through a pinewood to the spectacular sea beneath.

Address
Carretera Cala de San Vicente,s/n, San Vicente, 7811
Telephone: +34 971 31 0900