# Maó

> capital city of the island of Menorca, Spain

**Wikidata**: [Q49550](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q49550)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahón)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ma-q49550

## Summary
Maó is the capital city of the island of Menorca, Spain, located in the Balearic Islands. It serves as the administrative, cultural, and economic hub of Menorca, with a population of approximately 28,000 people. The city is known for its historic sites, including the Mola Fortress and the Lazaretto, as well as its role as a gateway to the island's natural parks and coastal attractions.

## Key Facts
- **Location:** Capital of Menorca, one of Spain's Balearic Islands.
- **Population:** Approximately 28,000 residents (as of recent estimates).
- **Coordinates:** Latitude 39.889444, Longitude 4.264166.
- **Official Website:** [www.ajmao.org](http://www.ajmao.org).
- **Aliases:** Mahón, Port Mahon.
- **Sitelink Count:** 65 (indicating significant online presence and references).
- **Wikidata Description:** Capital city of the island of Menorca, Spain.
- **Related Island:** Menorca, part of the Balearic Islands.
- **Cultural Properties:** Includes the Mola Fortress (built in 1848), Lazaretto, and Cornia Nou.
- **Natural Parks:** S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park (established in 1995).
- **Historical Sites:** Hipogeos de Biniai Nou and Sa Cudia Cremada.
- **Sports Teams:** Menorca Bàsquet (founded in 1950) and CF Sporting Mahonés (founded in 1974).
- **Infrastructure:** Menorca Airport serves the island, and the city has a port (Port of Maó-Mahón).
- **Theatre and Events:** Teatre Principal de Maó and Pavelló Menorca (opened in 2005).
- **Media:** La Voz de Menorca, a newspaper founded in 1906.
- **Administrative Status:** Part of the autonomous community of the Balearic Islands, Spain.

## FAQs
**What is the population of Maó?**
Maó has a population of approximately 28,000 residents, making it the largest city on the island of Menorca.

**What are the main cultural landmarks in Maó?**
Key cultural landmarks include the Mola Fortress, the Lazaretto, and Cornia Nou, which reflect the city's historical significance.

**What natural attractions are near Maó?**
Maó is near S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park, known for its wetlands and biodiversity, as well as other coastal and archaeological sites.

**What sports teams are based in Maó?**
Menorca Bàsquet and CF Sporting Mahonés are notable sports teams representing the city in basketball and football, respectively.

**What is the significance of the Mola Fortress?**
The Mola Fortress, built in 1848, is a historic military structure that played a role in Menorca's defense and maritime history.

**What is the climate like in Maó?**
Maó has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, typical of the Balearic Islands.

## Why It Matters
Maó serves as a vital cultural and economic center for Menorca, blending historic charm with modern infrastructure. Its strategic location on the island's eastern coast makes it a key port and transportation hub, facilitating trade and tourism. The city's rich heritage, including its fortified structures and natural parks, attracts visitors and contributes to the island's identity. Additionally, Maó's role in the Balearic Islands' administrative and political landscape underscores its importance in Spain's regional governance. As a gateway to Menorca's diverse attractions, the city plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the island's cultural and environmental heritage.

## Notable For
- **Historic Fortifications:** Home to the Mola Fortress, a key military landmark from the 19th century.
- **Natural Parks:** Proximity to S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park, a protected wetland area.
- **Cultural Heritage:** Preservation of archaeological sites like Hipogeos de Biniai Nou and Sa Cudia Cremada.
- **Sports Infrastructure:** Hosts Menorca Bàsquet and CF Sporting Mahonés, prominent local sports teams.
- **Tourism Hub:** Served by Menorca Airport and the Port of Maó-Mahón, enhancing its role as a travel destination.
- **Theatrical and Event Venues:** Features the Teatre Principal de Maó and Pavelló Menorca for cultural events.
- **Media Presence:** Publishes La Voz de Menorca, a long-standing local newspaper.

## Body
### Geography and Location
Maó is situated on the eastern coast of Menorca, Spain, with coordinates at latitude 39.889444 and longitude 4.264166. The city is part of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain, and serves as the administrative center for the island. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by natural landscapes, including the S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park, which is known for its wetlands and biodiversity. The city's strategic location makes it a key port and transportation hub for the island.

### History and Development
Maó has a history dating back to its founding as a strategic port and administrative center. The Mola Fortress, built in 1848, is a notable example of the city's military history. The Lazaretto and Cornia Nou are other historic sites that reflect the city's cultural and architectural heritage. The city's development has been influenced by its role as a gateway to Menorca's natural and cultural attractions, as well as its economic activities.

### Cultural and Economic Significance
Maó is a cultural hub for Menorca, with landmarks such as the Teatre Principal de Maó and the Pavelló Menorca, which host various events and performances. The city's economy is supported by tourism, trade, and local businesses. The Port of Maó-Mahón is a major infrastructure project that enhances the city's role as a commercial and transportation center. Additionally, La Voz de Menorca, founded in 1906, serves as a key media outlet for the city and its residents.

### Sports and Recreation
Maó is home to several sports teams, including Menorca Bàsquet and CF Sporting Mahonés, which represent the city in basketball and football, respectively. These teams contribute to the city's sporting culture and provide opportunities for local athletes. The city also offers recreational activities, such as beach access and nearby natural parks, which attract visitors and residents alike.

### Administrative and Political Role
As the capital of Menorca, Maó plays a significant role in the island's administrative and political governance. It is part of the autonomous community of the Balearic Islands, Spain, and contributes to the region's overall development. The city's infrastructure, including Menorca Airport and the Port of Maó-Mahón, supports its role as a key administrative and economic center.

### Related Entities and Projects
Maó is connected to various entities and projects, including the S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park, which is a protected wetland area. The city also hosts the Pavelló Menorca, an arena used for cultural and sporting events. Additionally, La Voz de Menorca is a notable media outlet that serves the city and its residents. These connections highlight Maó's role as a cultural, economic, and administrative hub for Menorca.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.ajmao.org/Contingut.aspx?IdPub=17894)
2. Nomenclátor Geográfico de Municipios y Entidades de Población (20240402 edition)
3. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap)
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. [Source](https://www.worlddata.info/europe/spain/timezones.php)
6. [Source](https://aldc.espais.iec.cat/localitats-nova/index-numeric-de-localitats/)
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
8. MusicBrainz
9. Municipal Register of Spain 2013
10. Municipal Register of Spain 2012
11. Municipal Register of Spain 2011
12. Municipal Register of Spain 2010
13. Municipal Register of Spain 2009
14. Municipal Register of Spain 2008
15. Municipal Register of Spain 2007
16. Municipal Register of Spain 2006
17. Municipal Register of Spain 2005
18. Municipal Register of Spain 2004
19. Municipal Register of Spain 2002
20. Municipal Register of Spain 2003
21. Municipal Register of Spain 2001
22. Municipal Register of Spain 2014
23. Municipal Register of Spain 2015
24. Municipal Register of Spain 2016
25. Municipal Register of Spain 2017
26. Municipal Register of Spain 2018
27. [Cifras oficiales de población resultantes de la revisión del Padrón municipal a 1 de enero. National Statistics Institute](http://www.ine.es/dynt3/inebase/index.htm?padre=525)
28. Municipal Register of Spain 2019
29. Municipal Register of Spain 2020
30. Municipal Register of Spain of 2021
31. Municipal Register of Spain of 2022
32. Municipal Register of Spain of 2023
33. Municipal Register of Spain of 2024
34. Municipal Register of Spain of 2025
35. List of Municipalities and their Codes by Provinces as of January 1, 2019
36. Modifications in the municipalities produced from 01-01-13 to 01-01-14
37. [Source](https://www.ine.es/dynt3/inebase/es/index.htm?padre=517&capsel=525)
38. GeoNames
39. Límites municipales, provinciales y autonómicos
40. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)