Sa Mesquida Tower
In the middle of Maó Bay, on top of a rock, stands Sa Mesquida Tower. This is an English coastal defence tower built in 1799, during the third and final English domination (1798-1802).
Along with 10 others, it formed part of the network of towers that made up the island’s coastal defensive system. This system was set up following the demolition of Sant Felip (es Castell) and Sant Antoni (Fornells) castles in 1782 by order of Charles III.
The construction consists of three storeys made of lime and sand plaster, which can still be seen on the north side, with vertical ashlar reinforcements that are particularly visible on the south side of the tower. It also has a very large and reinforced gatehouse on the west side, which exceeds the height of the parapet on the terrace, the purpose of which was to repel any land attack from this area. It also allowed rifle fire through its numerous arrowslits, both of which make this tower unique.
In order to confront the ships entering the bay, there was a structure on the upper platform for firing a rotating cannon.
The rest of the infrastructure was completed with a middle floor that still preserves a spiral staircase embedded in its wall, but of which hardly any remains are still standing, and the ground floor, where people used to access the tower and an excavated cistern.
Furthermore, very close to this main building there was another building that was used as accommodation for the garrison and guard corps, including a watchman's guardhouse. The entire complex is now privately owned.
Whether you want to enjoy the views, the beach, the coastline for scuba diving, imagine historical moments or follow the Camí de Cavalls Nature Trail on foot, by bike or on horseback, Sa Mesquida is always a beautiful spot under the watchful eye of its tower.
