The British presence in Menorca lasted for almost all of the eighteenth century. The British legacy remains, among other things, in the wonderful architectural heritage in the shape of defensive military structures that dot the whole of the island’s coastline. During the War of the Spanish Succession and as a result of the Treaty of Utrecht (1713), Menorca, along with … [Read more...]
Military hospital of Illa del Rei
Military hospital of Illa del Rei The old military hospital on the Illa del Rei, currently under restoration, has the peculiarity of being on an island in the harbor of Maó. The Illa del Rei The island, also known as The Bloody Island, is in the middle of the Maó harbour, between Maó and Es Castell villages. Its name comes from the legend that Alfonso II of Catalonia and … [Read more...]
Fort Marlborough
Fort Marlborough A spectacular eighteenth century fortress carved into the rock in perfect condition. The fort The fort stands on the southern side of the entrance to Maó harbour, in the cove Cala de Sant Esteve, and was built by the British between 1720 and 1726. It owes its name to Sir John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough, the most prominent British General of the time. … [Read more...]
Saint Philip’s castle
Saint Philip's castle The remains of one of the most important fortifications of its time in the Mediterranean The Saint Philip's castle Saint Philip's castle stands on the southern side of the entrance to Maó harbour and was built in the mid-16th century designed by Italian engineer Giovanni Battista Calvi. Over the course of successive British occupations the castle … [Read more...]
Fornells tower
Fornells tower The tower of Fornells is one of the largest defense towers and best preserved in Menorca. The tower A coastal defence tower built by the British in the early 19th century to guard the entrance to Fornells harbour, prevent the enemy coming ashore and protect the nearby Sant Antoni Castle, which has now been restored. Watchtowers controlled the local area … [Read more...]
