Menorca Festa de St Juan
Menorca returns to the 14th century on 19 June when horse riders and equestrian masters converge on the Plaza del Born in the town of Ciutadella for the Fiesta de Sant Juan. The celebrations include medieval jousting and the “jaleo” where horses rear-up on their hind legs amongst the crowds. The festival is preceded by the Day of the Lamb when at 9am, the herald plays a flute and drum before the fiesta committee summons the authorities, bishop, noblemen and horsemen to take part in the cavalcade. Riders wear traditional aristocratic uniforms of the Middle Ages as over 100 riders re-enacting equestrian traditions with jousting and horse acrobatics. On the 23 June, Midsummer’s Day is marked by a colourful ceremony in Plaza del Born followed by a visit to the hermitage of the saint for vespers. The evening sees partying and revellers continue way into the night.
To learn more about the festival, check the website: http://www.ciutadella.org/santjoan
For more info on what to do in Menorca, check the official website: http://www.emenorca.org
For some photos to inspire your trip, check; http://www.menorca-net.co.uk/menorca/Pphoto1.php
