Hinterland in Menorca
Although Menorca’s beaches are its primary attraction, those who take the time to explore the hinterland in Menorca will discover a number of worthwhile environmental, historical and urban attractions.
Menorca’s highest point and a significant spiritual centre, Monte Toro has been a point of pilgrimage for hundreds of years. On a clear day the peak offers breathtaking views across the island and ocean. A snaking, two-mile road leads to the summit, where there is a 16th century Baroque church, a 17th century Augustinian monastery and a colossal figure of Christ.
The hinterland in Menorca is scattered with the remains of prehistoric settlements and funereal sites. Communal burial structures have been found in a number of places on the island and are known as navetas. The most impressive of these is Naveta d’es Tudons, located a short distance inland from Ciutadella. Large stone blocks were used to build the necropolis, which previously housed the bones of mysterious ancient settlers.
Taulas and talayots are the other distinctive features that are apparent in the hinterland in Menorca. Taulas are t-shaped stone formations thought to be spiritual sanctuaries; while talayots are stone towers that local people believe were once used as look-out points. However, there is little evidence to support either of these theories about Menorca’s prehistoric past and the original function of these bizarre creations remains a mystery.
The hinterland in Menorca contains the ruins of a number of archaic settlements, with some of the most significant located at Trepucó and Torre d’en Galmés. There are also several interesting towns located in the hinterland, including Ferreries, Alaior and Es Mercadal. Being the centre of the island’s jewellery and footwear industries, and hosting a regular craft market in a 14th century building, Ferreries is a good option for keen shoppers. An exquisitely scenic gorge runs all the way from Ferreries to Menorca’s southern coast, terminating in a beautiful bay;, while a few miles from Ferreries is Castell de Santa Agueda, the ruins of an ancient Roman castle with panoramic views over the island.
Es Mercadel is a pretty, peaceful town that was established in the 14th century and is made up of simple, whitewashed buildings nestled at the base of Monte Toro. One of its main attractions is a traditional Menorcan restaurant located in a restored windmill and serving authentic island cuisine. Es Mercadel is also home to a beautiful church with murals embellishing the interior walls and a number of nearby prehistoric ruins.
The charming town of Alaior is the island’s primary cheese-making site and visitors can purchase some of the delicious local produce at the daily food market here. There is also a weekly Thursday market selling handicrafts, clothes, jewellery and leather items - an excellent place to pick up gifts and souvenirs. Other Alaior highlights are a 17th century Baroque church, a cultural museum and an art and sculpture gallery. The surrounding countryside features numerous walking trails and is wonderfully scenic with rich bird life and plentiful trees.
The sleepy village of Es Mighorn Gran was established in the 18th century and is characterised by typically rural architecture consisting of attractive, whitewashed buildings with sizeable porches and wooden shutters. It has somewhat of a bohemian atmosphere and a number of artists live and exhibit their work here.
