Art & Culture
Aside from the numerous archaeological and historical sights of interest all over the island, the present day art and cultural scene is thriving. Menorca enjoys a full and varied agenda of cultural events throughout the year, with music festivals, organ recitals, jazz nights and art exhibitions on offer.
Beginning on Good Friday and running for six weeks, the Menorca International Jazz Festival, organised by Jazz Obert invites jazz musicians from around the world to take part in a series of concerts held at different venues in Maó and Ciutadella. Jazz lovers should also not miss the Tuesday night jazz sessions in Sant Climent where, in addition to the resident band, well-known visiting musicians also perform.
The Maó Music Festival runs from end of June to end of August with a number of classical music concerts by internationally renowned musicians. The majority of these are held in Maó’s Teatro Principal, a beautifully restored opera house. Dating back to 1829, this is the oldest opera house in Spain. Menorca has a long and rich tradition of opera and Opera Weeks are held in May and December each year, with three performances per week. Also in Maó, organ recitals are held every morning except Sunday in the Santa María church which boasts an outstanding 200 year old organ.
The Young Musicians of Ciutadella promote a Summer Music Festival with a varied programme of classical concerts held in the atmospheric Claustre del Seminari in July and August each year.
Art too occupies a special place on the cultural agenda. Due to the natural beauty of the island both along its coast and inland, the wonderful light and colours and its peaceful atmosphere, Menorca draws artists from far and wide. Several internationally-famed artists reside on the island and Menorca enjoys a thriving art scene. Amateur painters regularly get together to practice their art, local artists give painting classes and arrange specialised painting holidays and numerous galleries in Maó and Ciutadella exhibit works by local and international artists throughout the year.
 |
|
 |
 |
