Although many arrive in search of their beautiful beaches, Menorca is much more than its idyllic turquoise water coves In the Mediterranean. Part of the Balearic Islands, in Spain, is a destination that surprises with its traditions, its history, but also with a millenary treasure and that generates intrigue and curiosity in travelers: megalithic constructions.
Talays, the vendals are part of the circuit of the Menorca TalayoticWorld Heritage for UNESCO since 2023, a recognition of the important density of prehistoric archaeological deposits in an inhabited territory.
In just over 700 km2, Menorca has 1,586 archaeological deposits. Attention: Not all sites are open to visits nor are all easily accessible.
In general, it is estimated that they are from IX century BC BY CHRIST And they are in outdoor spaces surrounded by tranquility inside the island. They generate curiosity and their gray tones stand out in the midst of vegetation.
Among the Better preservedyou can visit the Des Tudons ship (Ciutadella or Ciudadela) or the town of Trepucó (Maó or Mahón).
Getting around these prehistoric monuments allows you to approach the life of the first civilizations that inhabited the island.
“The Arrival of the first human communities in the Balearic Islands It is later than in the rest of the Mediterranean islands, and is located in the third millennium AC. The first settlers who colonize Menorca have common features with which they are installed on the island of Mallorca and in the Pitiusas, as well as with the cultures of the Eastern Pyrenean area and the Languedoc, where they possibly proceed, “explains from the Department of Culture I Education – Insular Consell of Menorca.
And they add: “However, insularity fosters a process of cultural differentiation That, throughout the second millennium AC, the culture of Menorca and Mallorca away from Ibiza and Formentera. “
Already towards the end of the Bronze Age, it is possible to detect how in Menorca begin to see their own characteristicsdifferent from the neighboring islands that are gradually becoming stronger. Thus a “unique culture and a marked personality” is born.
Here are some of the structures that are possible to identify on the Spanish island
Talayots are imposing Stone towers They reach up to five meters high.
In addition to their possible objective as a defensive construction or environment control, they were considered a symbol of community union.
The taulas were sanctuaries where fertility rituals, animal sacrifices and even the breakage of amphorae were performed. In all cases, fire was a central element.
Ships can only be seen in Menorca. It is considered that its function was that of collective grave built with medium stones.
Among the cliffs and ravines of the island, there are also funeral caves, burial, or necropolis, although access is usually much more difficult.
There are also circular houses, Dolmen, Hypogeo, Wall and Hiposty Sala, among others.
A suggested itinerary is tour the route that crosses the interior of Menorca (Me-1), from east to west and making “strategic deviations”.
Given the important number of talayotic remains, the important thing is reach those best preserved and open to visits.
You also have to keep in mind that they can be hired Excursions with guide that help understand this culture, history and meaning of the constructions that are being seen.
After an immersion in the Menorca history, it will be time to settle in one of the Figs of the island to enjoy the beach and the sea.