ROQUETA champions the eternal appeal of the Artisans and the smaller privately owned shops.
In our April/May issue I wrote about how vital the smaller traders are both to the local economy and the general vitality of the shopping experience on the Island. As promised I will continue to report on this rich tapestry of traders and make them an important part of ROQUETA’s long term editorial content.
This month, with ROQUETA’s focus on Ciutadella, I visited just a small portion of the street scene.
From the main square you can just set off on a journey without destination exploring the old town to your hearts content. The beauty of the built-environment and architecture is as good as it gets anywhere in the world – I promise!
I’d certainly always prefer this slightly disorganised way of sightseeing. The randomness of strolling around always means that you discover for yourself – rather than being told what should be on your bucket list. The juices flow and you get the ‘jiggy-beans’ – that’s my expression for childlike over-excitement. Just step away from the main drag and search out those hidden streets and squares – ask a local resident to recommend their favourite ‘hide-outs’, shops, galleries and cafes.
Enjoy, and don’t forget to ‘smell the roses’!
LA PURISSIMA
Carrer de La Purissima, 11
Evelyne Mandel is the owner of this gorgeous homewares boutique. In fact, in the spirit of the traditional shopkeeper this is also her home, which is total magic. Surprise, surprise Evelyne is from Paris and it shows – everywhere you look oozes understated style.
From soft furnishings to plates and glassware, it is an Aladdin’s Cave of treasures.
Ciutadella has all the charm of Montmartre in Paris, without the frenetic lifestyle. We try to reflect this in our products.
ROSETA
Carrer de La Purissima, 7
Tel. 971 38 64 98
This place is so well edited and beautifully simple in its decor. Just white washed stone shelves – understated elegance at play.
Check out the Menorcan made ‘Mary Jane’ sandals with the little block heels. So Audrey! And the shimmering Espadrilles – yes – buy 2 pairs. And not forgetting the wedged canvass sandals – buy the dusky grey. Finally, any shoe shop that stocks Superga Italian plimsoles is on the cool-wall straightaway!
We are very proud to represent Menorcan shoemakers here in Ciutadella… says Antonia, the Roseta owner.
GALERÍA DE ARTE PEDRÍN
Carrer Seminari, 30
Tel. 971 48 15 43 – 677 385 309
www.artepedrin.com
A quirky Art Gallery purveying Sculpture-Avant-Gard of Pedro Rodríguez “Pedrín”. This is a beautiful space with very interesting artworks.
As the curator of the gallery, Miriam is as stunning and as bright as the work itself.
We have a clash of culture, this modern art shown in a very historic outlet. It provides a very interesting space for people to enjoy.
CLOE
Carrer Santissim, 3
Tel. 871 701 866
A simple men’s and ladies’ casualwear boutique.
Owned by Pablo from Asturias, he is a very personable and brilliant salesman. He remembered what shirt I’d expressed an interest in 10 days earlier? I’d only ever been in the shop once – Fantastic. Anyway needless to say I handed him my 110 euros. A killer linen shirt in rich sky blue by BD Baggies – shame it’s from the US and not from Menorca. Hey ho.
My father was exasperated when I gave up my career on the mainland, but I love this place and have never looked back.
CHEAP&CHIC
Carrer Sant Jeroni, 10
Tel. 635 236 587
www.cheapandchichotels.com
You’ve heard of the overused description “Boutique Hotels” – a bit passé these days? Not this place.
You would literally cancel the flight home to stay 2 more nights here! There’s more style in this bijou B&B townhouse than the whole of Middle America.
The owner, the delectable Pier-Angela from near Lake Como, looks like she might be Miucca Prada’s personal stylist, and the hotel reflects this. From the moment you enter, to the bedrooms. Style over Substance? NO WAY!
This beautiful space is an interior designers dream, and we hope that we have reflected this in our presentation of the hotel, Pier-Angela says.