Maó or Mahón was originally named by the Carthaginians in the third century BC, and it has been the capital of Menorca, since the British changed it from Ciutadella in 1721. The reason for this was the harbour - 5km long, over 1km at its widest point, and 15-30m deep it is the largest natural harbour in the world, after Pearl Harbour. This fact, coupled with its location in the Mediterranean, has made it a natural strategic stronghold for innumerable nations throughout its history.

The port itself has in recent years been upgraded, and the waters cleaned up. “Farms”, produce mussels and clams, many of which end up on the menu in the numerous bars and restaurants along the quayside. It is easy to spend many hours down on the port, watching the ships, admiring the view, enjoying the hospitality of the restaurants, sampling the local gin in the Xoriguer Gin Distillery, or just daydreaming of what it would be like to own one of the beautiful boats or yachts that are moored along the edge.

 The town itself also has plenty to offer. The old meets the new, without detracting from the charm of this small capital. Narrow streets and virtually non existent pavements, with houses huddled together to protect themselves from the strong winter north wind, cope bravely with the motor car, and provide an imaginative one way system unique to Maó. 

 There are many buildings of historic interest, the oldest relic being the Arch de San Roque, the only surviving remains of the XIV century wall that circled the town. The Church of Santa Maria, in the Plaça Constiució, is 200 years old  and is home to a great organ with over 3000 pipes. Adjacent to this is the  town hall, built in 1631 and restored in 1788, it has a clock tower which still houses the clock brought from England by the first British Governor in the XVIII century. Even the town’s market resides in a building which was originally a convent, built along with the neighbouring church in 1751. For those interested in finding out more about the town, a guide book is strongly recommended and  a visit to one of the local museums. The tourist office  situated at no. 24, Sa Ravellada de Dalt can provide more information.

 However for many the attraction of Maó will lie in its shops, restaurants and bars. Along the main pedestrian walk way, small shops offering everything from china to shoes, jostle for space with bars spilling out onto the pavements. Restaurants abound, catering for all gastronomic preferences , from Spanish to Indian and Chinese! Whatever your reasons for visiting Maó, it will not disappoint you.

Where to eat....

Where to Buy....

Beauty Salon

Dentists

Trotting Races

Charity

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