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The islands around the Mediterranean Sea have some of the best places for your HOLIDAY RENTALS IN SPAIN. Monte Toro is 357 meters high and it is the highest point on Menorca. On top of the peak stands a tiny priory which had its origins back in the 13th century but was just about wiped out in 1936. The chapel of Virgin Marie and the mythical bull can still be seen on Monte Toro at the site of the old priory with some enjoyable and impressive views over the entire island. The island is renowned for its collection of megalithic stones. Man’s early history on Menorca is filled with objects and artefacts that is clearly the influence of so many Mediterranean cultures, all of which can easily be seen in the building and cuisine of the island. Because of early piracy in the Mediterranean Sea at a time when the Romans had occupied the rest of the Iberian Peninsula, shortly after the last of the Punic Wars, pirates would attack shipping moving between the Iberian and the Italian peninsulas. They would use the Balearic Islands as a sanctuary. Ultimately though the Romans invaded and captured the islands, which stayed under their control until the decline of their empire although it did forestall the pirates. The Romans were soon succeeded by the Vandals and then the Moors, and finally Alfonso III liberated the island in January 1287. That day is now an anniversary celebrated as Menorca’s national day. The largest fiesta is the Festival de Sant Joan which is held yearly and lasts for three days. During the first day a man carrying a sheep wonders the streets. On the second day the black horses of Menorca are paraded through the city covered with ribbons and rosettes, their riders inspiring the animals to rear up on their hind legs to the elation of the locals. The event itself a precursor to the last day of the festival: a competition between riders from different quarters competing in a jousting competition. The end of the final day sees an evening of great firework displays. The British once owned the Islands from 1713 through to the battle of Menorca which happened in 1756 when the French took control. Even though it was only for a brief period, two years later it was retaken by the British only for them to give it away to the Spanish in 1802 with the Treaty of Amiens. Menorca is the smallest of the Balearic Islands hence its name while Mallorca is the largest of the islands. During certain times of the year bird watchers have chosen Menorca as their HOLIDAY RENTALS IN SPAIN location as the island is also on a major migratory route for many species of birds and have become a favourite place for bird watchers.
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