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History And Holidays On Menorca

By: Mark Bartley

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Pine trees fill the hillsides that lead down to many of Menorca's beaches, lending a fragrant perfume to the sea air and there are plenty of rocky limestone coves to discover and explore. Nature lovers will enjoy the interior of Menorca and the opportunity to discover birds and other wildlife, and those who simply want to lose themselves in Menorca's vibrant and bustling culture can investigate its many tumbling streets. However, Menorca holds all kinds of historical attractions for those so inclined. From the ancient capital of Ciutadella to the Baroque church of Monte Toro, there is plenty for those with a fascination for the past.

Menorca holidays just wouldn't be complete without sampling the famous Balearic Gin. The Xoriguer Distillery gives visitors the opportunity to combine history with a taste of the present. This distillery was built in the 18th Century and still uses copper stills to produce the spirit, which is eventually combined with local Juniper berries to give the drink its distinctive fragrance.

One place where you can relive the origins of civilisation on Menorca is Cales Coves. Situated seven miles to the west of Mao, these caves were excavated in prehistoric times, creating an ancient and complex system of subterranean tunnels and chambers. They are open to the public but can also be viewed from the sea, giving a true idea of their splendour.

Talayotic sites are everywhere in Menorca, offering visitors an insight into Menorca's earliest inhabitants.. However, there are over 1500 ancient sites on Menorca, each with their own treasures and examples of pre-history.

Menorca also has a military heritage.

Because of its perfect position as a military base, Menorca was invaded and conquered by practically every European country with a boat. The Romans, the Moors and the Spanish Catholics have all made their mark here, as well as there being other more recent landmarks of conflict. Evidence of ancient walls can be seen all over the island and small churches and chapels seen to be everywhere. The Cathedral in the Plaza de Pio XII is well worth a visit. Completed in 1362, it took over half a century to build and is riddled with narrow, market streets and evocative, atmospheric passageways. In addition to the many buildings that chart Menorca's history, its past is brought to life in many of the festivals that take place. The Mao Festival is a traditional religious celebration that dates back to the 17th Century, with many of the participants riding the world-famous Spanish horses.

However, whilst enjoying history-infused holidays in Menorca, it pays to remember that you are not the first to enjoy the luxury of Menorca villas. Villas in Menorca have changed a lot since those days. Whilst many are built in sympathy with their surroundings, they offer all the modern conveniences that you would expect from accommodation in the 21st Century. In addition, they are situated well away from the more commercial resorts and tourist destinations, giving visitors the opportunity to sample Menorcan life at its most authentic. Whatever your interest, Menorca is sure to have something to nourish it.

Article Source: http://depositarticles.com/

With self-catering holidays becoming popular villas in Menorca can now be found all over the island. With so many attractions to enjoy, Mark reports that holidays on Menorca are still attracting many thousands to the island every year.

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