Mahón (known as Maó in Catalan) has been the capital of Menorca for almost three hundred years and is located in the eastern part of the island and only a 15 minute car or bus ride from Villa Christina. Mahón has the second deepest natural harbour in the world, 5km long and up to 900m wide. The water is deep but it remains very clear. Mahón became a strategic Mediterranean stronghold and was held by the British for over one hundred years until it was returned to Spanish rule in the nineteenth century.
It is a large town with a vibrant atmosphere where you can enjoy many hours of shopping and sightseeing through its maze of charming squares and narrow streets, many of which are pedestrianised. The market is housed in a restored convent dating from the seventeen fifties and is well worth a visit. Popular purchases include leather goods, pottery, embroidered linens and jewellery.
There are some wonderful historic buildings, churches and museums. Mahón was once a walled town but now only the Arc de San Roche, one of the gates into the town, remains. There are several old buildings that should be visited on your sightseeing list. These include the Town Hall, restored in the late eighteenth century, and the Church of St. Mary in Constitution Square with its wonderful organ. Recitals are given here daily. The gin distillery is another favourite with tourists.
Its population in 2009 is about 30 000
Mahón today serves as the seat of the Island Council of Minorca (Consell Insular de Menorca).
Towards the end of the 20th century, a refurbishment of its historic centre was made possible by income from tourism.
A traditional cheese made on the island (Queso de Mahón) is named after the city. Some believe that the origin and name of mayonnaise are found in this Menorcan city.
