Portal de Sant Roc (Saint Roch Gate), Mahon

The Saint Roch Gate is the only surviving remnant of Mahón’s medieval fortifications, a reminder of the 14th-century walls built to defend the city from raids and invasions. Dating to around 1359, it once served as a main entrance connecting Mahón with the surrounding countryside and other Menorcan towns.

The structure reflects the practical style of Gothic military architecture: sturdy and unadorned, designed for defense rather than ornament. Over time, most of the walls were dismantled as the city expanded, but the gate was preserved and carefully restored, returning its profile to a medieval form.

Two square towers of unequal height flank a pointed archway, which formed the original passage through the walls. Above the arch is a niche containing an image of Saint Roch, recalling the nearby chapel dedicated to him that was built in the 16th century.