If you’re looking for a charming and history-filled destination in Menorca, the village of Es Mercadal is the perfect place for you. Located in the center of the island, this village offers a wide variety of attractions and curiosities that you can’t miss. From its 18th-century church, the El Toro sanctuary, to its traditional festivals, Es Mercadal is a place full of history and tradition.
The village of Mercadal is one of the most charming and authentic destinations in Menorca. Located in the center of the island, this picturesque village has a rich history and tradition that can be appreciated in every one of its streets. In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the charms and curiosities of Mercadal so that you can fall in love with this wonderful village on the Balearic island.
Did you know that the name of the village, «Mercadal», comes from Latin?
Indeed, its name comes from the Latin «ipso mercatale» and this from «mercatum», a place or square where a market is held. In the concession of its celebration in 1301, it was mentioned as Mercatallo. It also comes from the Catalan «mercat», which means market, as fairs and markets were held in the area during the Middle Ages.
Did you know that Es Mercadal is the highest village in Menorca?
Indeed, with an altitude of 222 meters above sea level, Es Mercadal is the island’s highest village and the most northern. Actually, Fornells is the most northern locality or area of the municipality of Mercadal, known for its beautiful natural bay and its gastronomy based on seafood. A must-visit for those discovering the island for the first time (or even for those who come to the island every summer).
Did you know that Es Mercadal is the village in Menorca with the greatest traditional artisanal production of typical products such as «Carquinyolis»?
Carquinyolis, although of Catalan origin, is also a very typical product of Menorcan gastronomy (and of the rest of the Mediterranean regions). They are dry and crunchy biscuits made with almonds. In fact, one of the main differences between Menorcan Carquinyolis and others is that in Menorca, Carquinyolis are made with ground almonds.
The word Carquinyol comes from the Catalan verb «craquinyar», which means «to crack» in Spanish, and in ancient times, it is said that Carquinyolis was the gift that young Menorcans in the 19th century gave to girls to spoil them during the different patron saint festivities.
Did you know that the patron saint of Es Mercadal is Saint Martí and that its patron saint festivities are celebrated on the third weekend of July?
Every year, on the third weekend of July, the feast of San Martí is celebrated in Mercadal. During the festivities, various typical activities are organized, mainly related to horses, as is customary in the patron saint festivals of the villages on the island. In addition, different markets, music festivals, and other typical Minorcan events take place on the main street of the town, a tradition dating back to the 18th century.
Undoubtedly, it is another must-do activity or visit if you happen to be visiting the island during that time of the year.
Did you know that in Es Mercadal we can find Monte Toro, the highest peak or mountain on the island?
On the outskirts of Mercadal is Monte Toro, the highest mountain in Menorca, with an altitude of 358 meters above sea level. From the top of Monte Toro, you can enjoy spectacular 360º views of the island. This mountain is part of Menorca’s culture and history, and has a fascinating legend that gives origin to its name: El Toro. In summary, the legend tells that years ago, a bull guarded the summit, preventing anyone who tried to approach from passing, and one night, when some monks dared to climb the mountain, they found the bull who, instead of attacking them, led them to a cave. There, in the cavity of the mountain, the monks discovered the image of the Virgin of the Toro, the current patron saint of the island.
And that’s all for some interesting facts about the town of Es Mercadal, for many, one of the most beautiful and must-visit towns on the island.
But as they say, don’t just take our word for it, visit it and decide for yourself.
And before we say goodbye, if you are looking to buy a house in Es Mercadal, on our website you will find a selection of properties for sale in Es Mercadal. We hope you find them to your liking!