Port Mahon (Menorca Island, Balearic Spain)

Mao-Mahon (aka Mahon) is a port town, municipality and capital of Menorca Island (one of Spain's Balearic Islands), located on the island's southeastern coast. The town has population around 30,000. Balearic Islands' are one of Spain's autonomous territories. Menorca's other large town is Ciutadella (on the western coast).

Port Mahon features one of world's largest natural deep-water harbours: The waterway has length 5 km (3 mi) and max width 900 m (2953 ft). The water remains mostly clear due to being slightly enclosed.

In 1715, the British established a Royal Navy Dockyard on the harbor's northern side (opposite the town). It served as Royal Navy's principal Mediterranean base for much of the 18th century. Today it is still in use as a Spanish Naval base. Dockyard buildings from the 1760s are still seen on Illa Pinto (former Saffron Island) including the famous Naval Storehouse. 

Mahon cheese (traditionally made on Menorca Island) is named after the town. An interesting fact is that the town is considered the birthplace of mayonnaise. Some even believe that the name and origin of the product derives from Mao-Mahon.

Port Mahon cruise terminal