Ciutadella - The Old World Of Menorca
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by: Michael Mahon
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Word Count: 682
A rich history has helped define the Balearic Islands we know today. The official spoken languages are Spanish and Catalan, though many islanders are multi-lingual and speak English, French and German as well.
Mallorca and Menorca are very popular tourist destinations, especially among U.K. tourism markets.
Tourism to the islands began in the early 1950s with doctors prescribing weeks or months of tropical warmth to ease the discomfort of their patients. The warmth and relaxation the islands offered gave ease to arthritis sufferers as well as those who suffered from stress-related illnesses.
The History of Ciutadella
Ciutadella, former capital city of Menorca, has been known by many names throughout history.
It was originally founded by the Carthaginians in the early 4th century. For several centuries it was under the control of the Moors and often referred to as Madina al Jazira and Madina al Manurqa.
The reconquista or reconquest was a period of growth for all of the Iberian Peninsula. During this 750-year period and under the rule of Alfonso II, Ciutadella became part of the Crown of Aragon. It became a very important center for trade during the Middle Ages.
On July 9, 1558, a Turkish Armada of 140 ships and 15,000 soldiers invaded the town. Defended only by a few hundred men, the eight-day siege saw the entire town demolished. More than 3,000 surviving inhabitants were sold into slavery in the slave markets of Istanbul, also known as Constantinople, Turkey.
Many centuries of varying ownership and dramatic battles have left their mark on Ciutadella. Many civil and religious buildings were built following an Italian style in Ciutadella during the 17th century.
Prior to the 17th century, the Cathedral of Menorca was built on the foundation of an older mosque in 1287. By 1722, Menorca had come under British rule and Mahon was named her capital city.
The former capital still holds much of its medieval charm. No visit to Menorca would be complete without a tour of Ciutadella's old town. The current town hall was the former palace of the Arab governor. It also served as the Aragonese and governor's palace before the capital city was moved to Mahon.
Island Accommodations
Today, holiday resorts abound on both of the highly travelled islands.
Tourism on the Balearic Islands is a major source of income. Millions of tourists each year flock to the Balearics to escape the rigors of everyday life.
Several celebrities visit the islands each year in search for the same fun and relaxation other tourists enjoy.
Aside from crowded resorts and hotels, a wide array of privately owned apartments, townhouses and villas are available for rent. Many accommodations on the islands book to full capacity as much as a year in advance. It's very advantageous to book your Menorca holidays in advance and request a monetary exchange guarantee so there are no surprise costs when you arrive.
Travel on the Islands
Public transportation is readily available to and from all parts of the islands. Buses and taxis are often in high demand. Rental cars are in abundance for those who wish a more private self-service holiday on the islands. Bikes are available to tourists who enjoy cycling holidays.
Things to Do on Menorca
Most tourists and families will find Menorca is chock full of exciting activities and exploration opportunities. Cyclers enjoy the wide open trails that provide more than 30 miles of cycling for all ability levels. Museums and galleries are in abundance on Menorca and offer a glance into the history of the entire island.
Natural caves and coves are quite an adventure and provide an educational experience for children of all ages.
Nature lovers will also enjoy exploring the wetlands and observing more than 100 species of birds in their natural habitat. Theme parks and water parks help round out a broad list of things to do in Menorca if you are visiting for a holiday.
About the Author
For more information about the island of Menorca - yourmenorca.net includes a map of Menorca along with a Menorca weather forecast and the Menorca weather
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