Toro Mountain

Religious | Es Mercadal

On a clear day you can see the whole coastline of Menorca from the highest point in Menorca, Monte Toro. We can gaze across to the large and tranquil bay of Fornells with bright darting sails, the Artrutx Lighthouse where the land ends, the long white beach of Son Bou to the south with such different pale sand in comparison to the north’s rugged gold. You’ll be surprised to see how much woodland there is from this height of 357 meters. And while you’re there you can visit the sanctuary of Mare de Déu del Toro, still run by a community of Franciscan nuns. Inside this place of worship is the wooden carved image of the Virgen del Toro, the patron saint of Menorcans. The church’s interior presents one nave and three chapels on either side. Next to the church is a defence tower that was built at the end of the 16th century. The silhouette of Monte Toro can be seen from practically every town in Menorca. The best view of the island can be appreciated from its summit. It is well worth visiting the sanctuary and eating in the restaurant. The origins of the sanctuary date back to the 13th century, and it is said that the image of the Virgin was found at the top of the mountain by a group of monks who were accompanied by a bull that led the way. However, the name Toro actually comes from “tor”, of pre-roman origin, like the Catalan word turó (hill). Between 1595 and 1835, it was a monastery for Augustine monks and the sanctuary is now run by a group of Franciscan sisters of Mercy.