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M a g i s t e r G a r d e n s , M e n o r c a |
A derelict gem
The property, known locally as Clot d'en Magister, was discovered in December 2012. A derelict Grade I listed 19th century manor house. It occupies the site of an ancient disused sandstone quarry. The main house was built on one of the quarry walls, facing west towards the setting sun.
The stone from the church of Santa Eulalia in the village of Alaior was quarried from this site in the 17th & 18th centuries. Today all the stone that lay scattered in the grounds have been used in the restoration of the house and the creation of its gardens.
Old stone cisterns (tanks) in their day held up to a million cubic metres of water. The water was primarily used to cultivate prolific vineyards from which renowned wines were produced for hundreds of years. The 'cave' where the wine was matured is still visible on the neighbouring property.
It appears that significant elements of the house were never finished. An initial archaeological dig uncovered the original external flight of stairs conveniently allowing access to the first floor bedrooms. The main stair within the house was also never realised. The current owners have embarked on a completion and restoration project to bring this rural Mediterranean retreat back to life. We hope it will be a place for your enjoyment.