Amargos are one of the most typical old confectionery products of Menorca and are usually eaten at big celebrations, such as Christmas and New Year's celebrations, as well as for Saint Anthony, any birthday or special day. On our island, those from Es Mercadal are famous.
Being made from almonds, they are a sweet of Arab origin and can also be found in Mallorca, Catalonia and various parts of Spain and countries in the Mediterranean basin. In Sardinia, for example, they are part of the confectionery of the “Sa Sartiglia” festivities in Oristano and are called amaretti.