The night of Sant Joan, 23rd of June marks the arrival of the summer solstice, the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. It has become a celebration of the triumph of light over dark.The fiesta of Sant Joan in Ciutadella is of pagan origin and consists of 600-year old inherited rituals and
customs. The characteristics of these rituals are fire, water and the sun.
People take to the streets and party non-stop for 3 to 4 days drinking Pomada, an explosive mix of Mahon gin and lemonade, and for good luck, try to reach out and touch the fine black horses that rear up and dance amongst the crowds.
These Menorcan stallions, the Cavall de Raca Menorquina, play a huge part in festivals on Menorca.
The breed is distinct - true black in colour, elegant and slender, with large round eyes and a muscular and powerful appearance. Recent research has shown that they may be of Berber origin and are one of the few totally black horses in Europe.
This carefully bred horse has never seen the likes of fieldwork, that was traditionally all done by donkeys. This is maybe an influence on it's shape and style, pride and haughtiness.
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