Menorca, Spain

Whoever says anything about Ibiza and Mallorca, Menorca is also a pearl of the Balearics. Neglected for a long time because of them, Menorca is slowly and confidently gaining popularity. Quiet, cozy and unearthly, with endless crystal beaches and small exotic bays, bloody sunsets and the azure sea of ​​the sea, neatly perched houses on the slopes to the water. This is Menorca, attractive and magnetic. Menorca is a sight, a feeling, an atmosphere that will be remembered for a lifetime.
The history of Menorca is no different from that of the other islands in the archipelago and even boasts a curious history that has contributed to the island's popularity. In the 18th century, fierce battles were fought to conquer the island, whose capital was then called Mahon or Mayon. In 1757, Mahon was conquered by the French under the command of the Duke de Richelieu, but in turn the English arrived. They besieged the city and this led to famine. The only products left in abundance were eggs and olive oil. The duke was fed up with omelets and fried eggs, and he ordered his cook to make something "like this." The chef did not lose his presence of mind and mixed the yolks with olive oil, unwittingly preparing the sauce in question. He added a nice variety to the menu of the capricious aristocrat, and the sauce was called "maonic" (mayonnaise) after the city. It is believed that just then the famous mayonnaise sauce was born. 

Menorca also has its attractions. The capital Mahon and its heart, where life beats and develops - Plaza del Ehersito, the city of Es Castel and the well-preserved Fort Marlboro, Son Saura, Cala en Turqueta and Macarella and their places of solitude. But even more remarkable are the 500 megalithic monuments scattered around the island and organized into three main groups. Dating from the II millennium BC. there are thalaios - conical stone mounds, taules - T-shaped buildings, and navates - inverted riverbed, like a boat. In the past, they have been used as altars and tombstones, the most impressive being the 5-meter-high tower in the village of Trepuco and the Naveta des Tudons in Ciutadela.
The excellent atmosphere and cuisine of Menorca are things that have taken shape as a result of many years of occupation by successive invaders, including the British presence for a century.