Experience the Easter week in Majorca!

Spring has arrived and endows us with its brightest sunrays, the first of many that we will enjoy until late fall. At this moment the Majorcan residents commence one of the biggest festivals of social significance of Majorca: The Easter week! Many people might think right now: what is the weather like in Majorca at Easter? or: which airline can fly me to Palma from my city? Are the Balearic Islands popular for Easter holidays only due to its exceptional climate, while especially Majorca has so much more to offer!

As per an old-established tradition on this island, Majorca’s balconies are adorned with precious drapery of dark maroon and violet tones, called "Domas", remaining on the facades of the stately homes in Palma’s old town and different villages, providing a distinguished and characteristic look.

During the Easter week’s nights the inhabitants slip into their long penitent dresses adorned with olive, citric or palm branches, holding candles in their hands accompanied by solemn music walking down the streets in processions for eight days: Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. Every year a large audience marvels at the majestic walks, reflecting with emphasis the scenes of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ referring to the New Testament.

Children are also active participants in this celebration. The little ones wait with great enthusiasm for the lay brothers to give them traditional sweetmeat as presents.

Among the most emblematic rituals are:

The procession of the 'Crist de la Sang', which takes place on Holy Thursday in the streets of the Majorcan capital. The representation of the Passion of Christ that takes place on Good Friday on the steps of the Cathedral of Palma. The same day in the town of Pollença the 'Davallament' is represented, the descent from the cross of Jesus of Nazareth.

The culinary tradition is of course also very present in the Majorcan Easter season, especially represented by pastries like "panellets", "crespells", "robiols" and "panades". Families gather to produce them at their homes, sharing their recipes and pass their preparation techniques on to the next generation.

Chocolate has a special and significant role at this time after the Lent. The pastry chefs are responsible for creating the delicate "Mona de Pascua”, a yeast cake type decorated with boiled eggs and according to the tradition, it must be the godparents to give them to their nephews, nieces and godchildren.

In short: The Easter week in Majorca is celebrated in a very special way throughout the whole family.

More information:

Programme with all the processions Palma de Mallorca, 2018