El Toro in Catalan, sometimes known by its

Spanish Spanish might refer to: * Items from or related to Spain: **Spaniards are a nation and ethnic group indigenous to Spain **Spanish language, spoken in Spain and many countries in the Americas **Spanish cuisine **Spanish history **Spanish culture ...

name of Monte Toro, is the tallest hill of the island of

Menorca Menorca or Minorca (from , later ''Minorica'') is one of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea belonging to Spain. Its name derives from its size, contrasting it with nearby Mallorca. Its capital is Maó, situated on the isl ...

, rising to an elevation of above mean sea level. The mountain is home to the Sanctuary of the ''Verge del Toro''. The mountain's summit can be reached by car or on foot, from which there is a fantastic view of almost the entire island and even the mountains of Mallorca on a clear day. El Toro is designated as an ANEI (protected natural area).

Etymology

The name "Toro" is an evolution, in part for the different languages and cultures that have passed in the island, of the Catalan (Menorquí) word "Turó", which means

Hill A hill is a landform that extends above the surrounding terrain. It often has a distinct summit, and is usually applied to peaks which are above elevation compared to the relative landmass, though not as prominent as Mountain, mountains. Hills ...

. The name could also be derived from Arabic, coming from ''tor'' or ''al-tor'' which means 'height'. It does not come from, nor is it related to, the Spanish word for "bull".

Location

Monte Toro rises above the surrounding farmland and foothills approximately 2 miles (3km) east from the central town of Es Mercadal, in the centre of the island. It can be seen from places throughout the island and is instantly recognisable, due to the fact it is Menorca's only prominent summit.

Features

On a clear day, you can see the whole of the island, especially the northern region from Ciutadella to Fornells and even the mountains of Mallorca.

Monuments of interest

At its summit is the Sanctuary of the Virgen del Toro, an old Gothic church from 1670. There is also a statue of Christ, a gift shop, Match Digital's Spanish office and a restaurant with excellent views.

External links

Vista panorámica de 360° desde Monte Toro
Landforms of Menorca Landforms of the Balearic Islands Hills of Spain Tourist attractions in the Balearic Islands {{Balearics-geo-stub