History Of Menorca

With a name given to it by the Romans, meaning ‘little one’, the island of Menorca (sometimes written Minorca) has a long and interesting history, with evidence of settlers as far back as 2100 BC. Evidence of Bronze Age settlers on Menorca can be seen in the more than 200 rudimentary towers that still exist on the island today

Occupiers

The island’s development has been shaped by civilisations harking from all corners of the globe and including the Romans, Carthaginians, Moors, Greeks, English, French and Spanish. The most significant periods of development have occurred during the last four centuries and it’s during this time that ownership of Menorca has changed hands on more than one occasion.

British rule

In 1708 the island fell under British control, following its capture by the navy during the War of Spanish Succession. Until this time, the city of Ciutadella had been the island’s capital however the British decided Mahón was a more appropriate city and moved operations there, along with the establishment of a naval base at the town's harbour. The continuation of the 18th century saw a struggle for control of the island, firstly between the British and the French and secondly between the British and the combined forces of both the French and the Spanish. During the latter half of the century, ownership switched back and forth until it was permanently restored to the Spanish in 1802, with the signing of the Treaty of Amiens.

Spanish Civil War

During the Spanish Civil War, Menorca was alone in siding with the Republicans, as Mallorca and Ibiza both supported the Nationalist cause. There was no land-based fighting on Menorcan soil, although the island was subject to aerial bombing by the Italian air force. Menorcan soldiers joined a Republican attempt to invade Mallorca and suffered large scale casualties. Peace was finally restored to the area in 1939 with the help of the British Navy.

Twentieth Century

During the 20th century, the island began to gain popularity as a holiday destination and the building of a solid tourist infrastructure added to its appeal, while the increased availability of air travel also assisted in bringing the island into the spotlight. Today, as one of the Balearics, Menorca remains popular with families, young visitors and European expatriates.