Discovering the World Season 1 Episode 11 Menorca - The Riders of San Juan

Discovering the World takes us on a journey to the Spanish island of Menorca in episode 11, titled "Menorca - The Riders of San Juan." Known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, Menorca is also home to a unique cultural tradition - the riders of San Juan.

The episode begins with our host arriving on the island and meeting with local residents to learn about their customs and traditions. We see scenes of Menorca's picturesque landscapes and architecture, including buildings that are hundreds of years old.

As we delve deeper into the episode, we discover that the riders of San Juan are a group of horseback riders who have preserved a centuries-old tradition. They prepare all year for their annual festival, held in the town of Ciutadella, where they parade through the streets on their horses, donning traditional black and white attire.

We follow the riders as they prepare for the festival, washing and grooming their horses, and practicing formations and maneuvers. We see the intricate details of their costumes and learn about the significance of each element, such as the handkerchief they tie around their necks.

The festival itself is a spectacle to behold, with thousands of locals and tourists gathered to witness the parade. We see the riders' precise formations as they make their way through the streets, their horses' hooves drumming in unison. The energy is palpable as the riders perform daring feats, including standing on their horses' backs and jumping through rings of fire.

Throughout the episode, our host interviews locals about their pride in the riders' tradition and the importance of keeping it alive for future generations. We also get a glimpse into the riders' personal lives, learning about the dedication and hard work that goes into preparing for the festival.

As the episode draws to a close, we hear from the head of the riders of San Juan, who reflects on the significance of the festival and what it means to him and his fellow riders. We see the passion and love they have for their tradition, and how it has become an integral part of Menorca's cultural identity.

"Menorca - The Riders of San Juan" is a captivating look into the unique traditions and customs of Menorca. It leaves us with a deeper appreciation for the island's culture and the importance of preserving it for future generations.