Most people don't take sightseeing too seriously in Mahón, as they are here mainly to enjoy the views of the port, to dine, or to shop. Even so, you may want to visit the Esglesia de Santa María la Major, Plaça Constitució (tel. 97-136-39-49). The church was founded in 1287 by the Christian conqueror Alfonso III, who wanted to celebrate the Reconquest. Over the years, the original Gothic structure has been much altered, and it was rebuilt in 1772. It has a celebrated organ with four keyboards and more than 3,000 pipes, constructed in 1810 by Johan Kyburz, a Swiss artisan. Admiral Collingwood brought it to Mahón during the Napoleonic wars. A music festival in July and August showcases the organ, whose melodic sounds can be heard even as you sit drinking in a nearby cafe. The church is open daily 8am to 1pm and 6 to 8:30pm; donations are appreciated.
The best way to see the changing aspect of Mahón's port involves taking an hour-long catamaran tour. Because part of the sailing craft's hull contains glass windows below the waterline, you'll get views of underwater life that would otherwise be possible only with a submarine. Tours are conducted May to October at 9:30am, and then continue on the hour until 5:30pm. Departure time is not guaranteed, and the boat can leave up to 30 minutes later than scheduled. The cost is 20€ ($29) for adults, 14€ ($20) for children 10 and under. Tickets for this tour are available at Xoriguer Gin Distillery.
You can visit the Xoriguer Gin Distillery on the harborfront at Moll de Ponent 91 (tel. 97-136-21-97). Here, giant copper vats simmer over wood-fed fires. Later, after watching the process by which the famed Minorcan gin is made, you can taste more than a dozen brews. The distillery and a store selling the products, including potent liqueurs, is open Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm, and Saturday 9am to 1pm.
