Just outside of Ciutadella lies the Lithic Quarry Menorca, also known as the The S’Hostal Quarries is a spectacular visually appealing Limestone quarry carved out of the Menorcan hills.
What Is The Lithica Quarry In Menorca?
Lithica Quarry Menorca covers an area of 7 hectares and is an old disused limestone quarry. Historically stone was cut manually, through the 19th and 20th centuries, to mechanical extraction from 1960 to 1994. With production ceasing to existing in spring, 1994.
The now disused limestone quarry is transformed into a sight to behold. A labyrinth of pillars and a huge deep plot carved into the Menorcan landscape. Events are held from with the quarry too, such as the exhibition of the Lithica photography competition and even musical performances.
Surrounding the quarry you have the s’Hostal gardens. Botanical area of plants in a large garden. Historically when the quarries were first excavated, orchards were planted and through the disuse of the area, the gardens grew wild.
Inside the quarry provides a sheltered structure ideal for growth. Meaning there are a variety of areas you can visit. Including the Orchards Labyrinth, Medieval Garden, Plant Labyrinth.
Lithica is a not for profit private foundation that was formed to save Menorca’s marés limestone quarries from landfills. Destined to disappear under rubble the foundations aim is to protect and maintain the quarries as evidence of how humans have shaped the Menorcan countryside. The association became the Fundació Líthica-Pedreres de s’Hostal in 2012.
Where Is Lithica Quarry Menorca?
The S’Hostal Quarry Menorca is located just outside of the city of Ciutadella. Surprisingly within walking distance too. However for those further away you may want to look into bus routes or car hire.
The Lithica Quarry car park has limited spaces available.
Lithica Quarry Address: 07769 Ciudadela, Balearic Islands, Spain
Contact: Telephone: (+34) 971 481 578 Email: shostal@lithica.es
How Much Does Lithica Quarry Cost?
Tickets to the Lithica Quarry in Menorca are available online and we advise you book tickets prior to arrival.
There are two types of tickets to the quarry. Firstly, the general entrance ticket. Secondly you have the guided visit of the quarry.
General Entrance Ticket To Lithica Quarry
- Adult: €7
- Senior: €4
- Resident (65 years and older: €4
- Children (Up to 12 years old): Free
Guided Visit Ticket To Lithica Quarry
- Adult: €10
- Senior: €7
- Children (Up to 12 years old): Free
You can purchase both tickets to the Lithica Quarry Menorca here.
What Are The Opening Hours Of The Quarry?
The Lithica Quarry Menorca is open every day, all throughout Winter and Summer. However, the general entrance ticket and guided visit ticket have particular entrance times.
Lithica Quarry Opening hours
January – March:
9.30am to 2.30pm
April – October
09.30am to 14.30pm and
16.30pm to sunset
Sundays: 09.30am to 14.30pm.
November – December
09.30am to 14.30pm
SPECIAL CLOSURE DAYS
25 December 2022 – 21 January 2023
Sant Joan Fiesta
June 23 from 1:00 p.m.
June 24 and 25
Visit duration: 60-90 minutes approx. Last entry one hour before closing
Open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Until sunset Sundays: 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Guided tour: Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Approximate duration, 90 min. Small groups
Important Information Before You Visit Lithica Quarry
- The car park has limited space
- The height and depth of the quarry can make it difficult to capture the sheer size. So we advise taking photo’s from within the quarry and also looking below
- There have plenty of events and exhibitions throughout the year – here
- The gardens and shade provide a nice break from the heat in the summertime
- We advise taking water, sun cream and some food with you
- Drone photography is not permitted
- Be mindful of the winter opening schedule
- Unfortunately the information and history information is not in English
- Ensure you pay attention to the warning signs and areas of danger
