Menorca- Fall In Love With This Place!

Menorca is one of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea belonging to Spain. Menorca was named as a “minor” island by Romans. This island has interesting remains of its history.

Located in the middle of the western Mediterranean, this island has a diverse cultural background. There are many celebrations and festivals that take place throughout the summer in different towns on this beautiful island. The international opera week, international organ festival and summer music festival are some of the major events that take place.

The 'Festes de Sant Joan' is a summer fiesta that lasts for three days. It is the key festival. On the first day a man dressed in sheepskins carries a sheep on his shoulders and parades around the local streets. The main streets are closed late evening and bonfires are lit on them. On the second day, the riders ride locally bred black horses along the streets and the riders encourage the horses to rear up on their hind legs. On the third day there is an intense competition between the riders that involves spearing a suspended ring with a lance at considerable speed. The festivities end with an amazing firework display.

Matances de Bujots - Ciutadella de Menorca is a tradition that is held on Easter Sunday. It involves hanging up of the effigies of various well known figures on the streets which then become the target for marksmen.

Carnival Party in Alaior is one of the most exciting festivals. Various events such as fancy dress balls, a parade of floats and a competition between groups of singers take place. It is usually held in the months of March- April.

Besides festivities, Menorca is also known for its mouth watering cuisine. From wines and liqueurs to desserts you can have everything here. There are many delicious local dishes but the one that is most popular is "Caldereta de langosta" which is a strong soup made from lobsters and accompanied by toasted bread that is cut into small pieces. Menorcan-Style Stuffed Aubergines is a dish that is made from aubergines that are one of the most popular vegetables of this island.

It is a well known fact that mayonnaise originated in Menorca and therefore derived its name from the word Mao. Mao cheese is totally unique and has guarantee of origin. It is protected by the regulating council. It is square in shape. Panades is another specialty. This is a pastry that is prepared for Easter although nowadays it is commonly found in bakeries and pastry shops.

Menorca offers a range of desserts for those who have a sweet tooth. Carquinyols and Pastissets are square shaped and flower shaped pastries respectively that are prepared on various eves and festivals. Flaó and Greixonera, Panellets and Rubiols are some of the other well known sweet dishes on Menorca. So go ahead and grab a slice!

Wait, that’s not all! How can we forget alcohol when we are in Menorca? Gin Xoriguer, the most popular Minorcan gin that is made from grape wine, Herbes and Palo, Menorcan Liqueurs and Frígola, thyme liqueur are few of the traditional drinks among many others.

Menorca has so much to offer. The mesmerizing beauty of this location, great culture and delicious cuisine make this place one of the favourite holiday destinations.