Menorca is a small Mediterranean island off the southeast coast of Spain, known for its annual patron saint horse festivals that begin on solstice in June and are held in various towns throughout the summer. A traditional celebration since the 14th century, the first and biggest festival of San Juan takes place in Ciutadella and features extravagant parades and performances by the “Caixers” (or riders) on their black Menorcan horses.
We should note that the mood in Ciutadella is festive, sometimes raucous, but the smaller town festivals may offer visitors a better chance to get up close and personal with the beautiful Menorcan horses. (If you are looking for a party, don’t miss Ciutadella!)
Fans of rare horse breeds will enjoy learning about the Menorca, which received status as a recognized, indigenous breed of Spain in 1989 and is perhaps best known for its ability to perform “El bot” – rearing and walking on its hind legs. At the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Jerez, a team of Menorcan stallions and caixers famously performed a quadrille version of “El bot.”
In addition to the horses, all of the Menorcan horse festivals offer abundant drinking, dancing, and Mediterranean sunshine. We know…. it sounds very, very rough, doesn’t it?
