Menorca history

The island ’s  pre-history, as well as modern history is very rich.From the times when  the Romans were succeeded by the Moors as occupiers for several hundred years, Spain kept the ultimate control of the  island after the departure of the Moors, principally through the House of Aragon.

The island was invaded and desecrated by Moslem pirates in revenge against the Pope’s navies. The legendary Barbarossa (curiously enough the son of a Greek Orthodox priest) sacked Mahón and 20 or so years later Turkish pirates decimated Ciutadella The British became the next occupiers during the late 17th century, drawn to Mahón’s magnificent and safe natural harbour because of the increasing British trade in the Mediterranean.

The most important British Governor was Sir Richard Kane whose tenure lasted 25 years and during which time he had Kane’s road built from Mahón to Ciutadella (previously there were just paths) and introduced cattle to the island (almost entirely black and white Friesians, which can still be seen everywhere).

The French occupied the island for a relatively short period during which they built the town of San Luis and then the British returned before handing the island back to Spain in 1802.The visitor can appreciate that there is a lot more to the island than might at first be apparent. Menorquins have survived with their traditions and spirit intact all through a turbulent history.