The beautiful city of Mahon is the capital of Menorca, a charming Balearic Island, and it is an interesting combination of the old and new architecture. The natural deep-water port of Mahon is the second largest in the world. This incredible harbor is sheltered from the fierce storms that sometimes blow over Menorca. The old city offers wonderful views and the sunset at the bottom of the bay is really an incomparable show.
There are plenty of restaurants that serve all types of food, shops that sell traditional souvenirs, historic fortresses and a tourist boat with glass bottom. Some of the fortresses are still used by the Spanish Navy.
A Little Bit of History
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Mahon changed hands between the Byzantines, Vikings, Arabs and finally the Caliphate of Cordoba.
One of Menorca’s many hidden tiny bays
Alfonso III captured Mahon from the Moors in 1287 and re-fortified the harbor.
The Ottomans attacked Mahon in 1535 and took nearly 6,000 captives. The British captured it in 1708, during the War of the Spanish Succession and their possession was confirmed by a treaty signed in 1713.
Mahon was the capital during their reign and the governor resided here. In the eighteenth century, the island changed hands between the French, Spanish and the British. However, it was given back to Spain for good in 1802.
The view of Mahon
Carnival, Holy Week and Fiesta de la Mare de Deu de Gracia are the main festivals of Mahon.
During the celebration of La Mare de Deu de Gracia, local businesses are closed and everywhere there are street parties with food, drink and music.
Port of Mahon
People of all age groups join the singing and dancing and there is a firework display on the last night.
Where is Mahon?
- 7.4 miles/ 12 km from Alaior, Spain
- 18 miles/ 29 km from Ferreries, Spain
- 27.9 miles/ 45 km from Ciutadella, Spain
- 108.1 miles/ 174 km from Palma de Majorca, Spain
- 205 miles/ 330 km from Barcelona, Spain
- 3.1 miles/ 5 km from Menorca Airport, Spain
- 109.3 miles/ 176 km from Palma de Mallorca Airport, Spain
- 211.2 miles/ 340 km from Barcelona-El Prat Airport, Spain
Things to See
- Castell de Sant Felip
- Mahon Museum
- Iglesia de Santa Maria
- Gin Distillery
- Placa de S’Esplanada
- Ayuntamiento
- Bastion de Sant Roc
- Talati de Dalt
- Monte Toro
- Fornas de Torrello
- Boat Trip
Beaches
- Punta Prima Beach
- Binibequer Beach
- Cala Alcaufar
- Cala En Bosch
- Cala Macarella
- Cala Galdana
Excursions
- S’Albufera des Grau Nature Park
- Ciutadella
- Alaior
- Fornells
Menorca is the most tranquil of the Balearic Islands and its unspoiled beauty gives you the opportunity to discover the hidden charms. There are so many beaches here that you may get the opportunity to have a beautiful beach mostly to yourself.
In addition to this, the alfresco dining combined with the peaceful resorts make Menorca a highly desirable holiday destination.
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
