Located in the middle of Menorca’s Port of Mahón, Isla del Rey has become a popular spot for visitors interested in the island's rich past and emerging art scene

Isla del Rey: A Journey Through History and Art in Mahón’s Harbor

Sitting in the heart of Mahón’s vast natural harbor, Isla del Rey is a small island with a grand past. Over the centuries, it has served as a strategic military post, a historic hospital, and today, a cultural beacon that blends Menorca’s rich history with cutting-edge contemporary art.

A Storied Military and Medical Past

The island takes its name from King Alfonso III of Aragon, who is said to have landed here in 1287 during the Christian reconquest of Menorca. However, it was the 18th century that shaped Isla del Rey into the landmark it remains today. When the British occupied Menorca in 1711, they built a military hospital on the island to care for their troops. This hospital remained in use under successive British, French, and Spanish rules for over two centuries, providing medical care to sailors and soldiers.

The hospital’s significance extended beyond Europe, as U.S. Navy ships made port in Mahón during the 19th century. American naval personnel were treated at the hospital, forging an unexpected yet enduring connection between the island and the United States.

From Abandonment to Revival

For much of the 20th century, the hospital fell into disrepair. But in 2004, the Fundación Hospital de la Isla del Rey was formed, and dedicated volunteers undertook the painstaking restoration of the site. Their efforts have turned the island into both a living museum and a cultural landmark, preserving its military and medical history while welcoming a new era of artistic expression.

Hauser & Wirth: Menorca’s Contemporary Art Destination

In 2021, the renowned international art gallery Hauser & Wirth opened a contemporary art space on Isla del Rey, breathing new life into the island. The gallery, set within sensitively restored naval buildings, has quickly become one of the most exciting art destinations in the Mediterranean.

Hauser & Wirth Menorca has hosted exhibitions featuring internationally acclaimed artists such as Mark Bradford, Rashid Johnson, Louise Bourgeois, and Eduardo Chillida. The gallery not only showcases art but also integrates sustainability initiatives, blending seamlessly with Menorca’s status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The Cantina: Dining with a View

No visit to Isla del Rey is complete without stopping at Cantina, the island’s laid-back yet stylish restaurant. Offering seasonal Mediterranean cuisine, Cantina sources local ingredients to create fresh, flavorful dishes that reflect Menorca’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re enjoying seafood fresh from the Balearic waters or sipping a crisp local wine, the stunning views across Mahón’s harbor provide an unforgettable backdrop.

Getting to Isla del Rey

A dedicated ferry service departs regularly from Mahón, making it easy for visitors to access the island. The yellow boats run from the Moll de Llevant several times a day, with a short but scenic ride across the harbor. Tickets can be purchased at the pier, and visitors are advised to check seasonal schedules in advance.

A Must-Visit Destination

Isla del Rey is more than just a historical landmark—it is a testament to Menorca’s ability to preserve its past while embracing the future. Whether you’re exploring the centuries-old hospital, discovering world-class contemporary art, or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of the harbor, a visit to Isla del Rey offers an experience like no other in the Balearics.