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The Spanish Balearic islands are situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea and include Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Historically having been in an excellent position to take advantage of trade between Northern Africa and Europe, with beautiful weather and an eclectic mix of cultures, these islands are perhaps the most coveted in the region. Warm and welcoming, while being exotic at the same time, this is a wonderful location for those interested in a place not yet ruined by the rigours of tourism. Reputable companies like Bartle Holidays offer accommodation in authentic Menorcan villas, where visitors can experience the luxury and tradition of the island's historic architecture on an independent holiday. Villas offered by Bartle Holidays also are often situated close to points of interest, allowing visitors to soak in the island's history and beautiful mix of architectural styles, explained below. A Mix of Styles The towns and rural areas of the island have an enchantment which is best exhibited in the architecture; many of the houses have a Roman style to them and are built between ancient Arabic ruins. Most of the buildings on Menorca are built from stone, with a colonial style dominating much of the aesthetic. Though many people who come to the island to stay in one of the beautiful villas offered by Bartle Holidays come for the year round sun and warmth, the houses still have chimneys that – during the cooler weather – are still used as the main heating systems for some of the older houses occupied by local families. The Influence of Artists Due to the fantastic natural landscape and slow way of life, the island has become a popular place for artists and writers who have converted shepherds' barns and refuges into artist studios; you can see the influence of these artists all over the island. Much of the island is rural and the architecture very traditional, yet you can see how the lifestyles and aesthetic have been shifted by the presence of these artists. They have lent the island a bohemian feel, and have embellished on the indigenous building styles with a more continental European influence. The Houses in Rural Menorca Many of the houses on the island have evolved from their original state and have developed over time from simple structures to more elaborate. The changes and additions are a result of the needs of everyday rural life, and the simple design of most of the houses is a testament to the simplicity of the local people's lives. Some of the more extravagent rural homes are easily accessible from paths and road that criss-cross the island. Visitors can get a glimpse of the beautiful architectural masterpieces that were built by descendants of the invading Catalonian knights (when the old small Arabic communities, called alquerias, were taken over after the 12th century during the conquest by Jaime I). The beautiful and fluid mix of Spanish Christian and Arabic architecture that graces the island is, in great part, due to their influence. If you want a chance to learn more about the island's fascinating history and architecture, consider renting an authentic villa or retreat from Bartle Holidays to enable you the freedom and independence to explore. Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of superb villas on Menorca. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.
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