Talaia de s'Enclusa watchtower in Ferreries

Talaia de s'Enclusa is a watchtower built during the second half of the 18th century, situated at 275 meters above sea level on the mountain of S'Enclusa in the municipality of Ferreries. Along with the tower of Binissarmenya, it is one of the last buildings of this type erected in Menorca. These towers were constructed to monitor the arrival of pirate ships and provide warning to local populations so they could take defense measures before an attack occurred.

Beyond military defense, the towers played a critical role during epidemics and other health crises. They were used to ensure that no ships could unload cargo or passengers at locations other than the ports of Maó or Ciutadella, where health officials could authorize or prohibit operations. While five fixed towers existed at the start of the 18th century, the number could expand to ten during times of war or sanitary danger. Today, seven such towers remain, including the rectangular towers of s'Enclusa and Binissarmenya.

Currently, the structure is significantly deteriorated but maintains a practical role in the modern era. It is used as a fire lookout point for the Institut Balear de la Naturalesa of the Consell Insular de Menorca. The ruins are located near old American radars, accessible by turning right after the cemetery when traveling from Ferreries toward Ciutadella.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons