Interview at Avarque factory

Visit to a local factory "Avarques Castell", in Ciutadella, to learn about the traditional Menorcan footwear and the process of making them.

Fonso Blanco (Menorca) and Philippe Grange-Ponte (France), led the group of the following European pupils: Marchegiani G. from Italy, Jorinde from the Netherlands and George Spooner, Sara Melià, Aura Foguet, Elena March from class 4t Alaior.

Philippe reports:

" Students and teachers from France, Spain, The Netherlands and Wales discovered one of the most famous shoe-makers: Castell. This factory makes traditional and typical Menorcan shoes called Avarques. These sandals are very rustic and at the same time comfortable. Inspired by pre-Roman shoes, the shape of these shoes has changed to show now different colours and modern design. But the original Avarques is still made with leather and rubber soles, from recycled tyres. Castells’ sells its shoes in Spain and exports them to America and Asia. They are used to walk in the countryside, and also included in the most prestigious collections. Mixing tradition and modernity, original and recycling materials, local working and exportation in the world, this shoe-factory is a good example of sustainable development. "

The Powerpoint presentation below shows Philippe’s photos taken during the interview, as well as the interview itself.

Click on the AVARQUE to open the Powerpoint !

Interview Avarques factory Ciutadella