Menorcan gates (barreras menorquinas) are the wooden gates that close off tracks and the passages between fincas in Menorca. With their curved diagonal braces, they have become a symbol of the Balearic countryside and are now also found on fincas and villas in Mallorca.
A traditional craft
In Menorca they were made by the araders, country carpenters whose name comes from arada (plough). They were mainly used to close off passages so livestock couldn't stray from the finca, almost always set into dry-stone walls. Today they are part of the landscape along routes such as the Camí de Cavalls.
The timber: wild olive and olive
Traditionally they are made from ullastre (wild olive), an extremely hard and durable wood. The tree's naturally curved branches are used for the braces, so every gate is unique. The gates we supply at RUST & CO are handmade by a craftsman in Menorca to the traditional design; we order them, deliver them and install them.
The design
- A swinging leaf with horizontal rails.
- Curved diagonal braces that strengthen the gate.
- Hung on stone pillars or posts, with simple ironmongery.
How to look after them
- One coat of exterior oil a year (or two in very sunny spots) maintains the colour and stops the timber cracking.
- Check and grease hinges and latches.
- Avoid the bottom of the gate being constantly in contact with wet soil.
Would you like one for your finca?
We order yours to measure from the craftsman in Menorca, then deliver and install it at your finca entrance, track or garden anywhere in Mallorca and the Balearics. Send us the width of the opening and a photo of the entrance.
For the full story, read the guide The Menorcan gate: history, wood and craft, written by Alan Kenedy.
Have a project in mind?
Send us a WhatsApp with a few photos and your idea. We reply quickly and, if it suits you, we come to see it and send you a detailed written quote in English.
