Sant Antoni: A Traditional Mallorcan Festival
Visit Mallorca is synonymous with exploring a unique destination that offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, historical traditions and rich culture. The island is known for its spectacular beaches, its impressive Tramuntana mountain rangeIts exquisite gastronomy and its ancestral customs are still very much alive and well. Among all the festivities that are celebrated on the island, one of the most outstanding is the Sant Antoni festival held in January, an event full of mysticism y tradition which reflects the very essence of the rural life in Mallorca. Of all the municipalities that celebrate these festivities, the following are particularly noteworthy Sa Pobla, Manacor and Artà.
The origin of Sant Antoni
Sant Antoni is recognised as the patron saint of animals and protector of the fields. The mallorcan tradition to honour Sant Antoni dates back to the 14th centurywhen the rural people He asked for her protection for the crops, especially during the coldest months of the year. This link with nature is reflected in the celebrations held in her honour, which begin with the eve of Sant Antonithe 16 January. During this night, large bonfires are held, known as fogueronswhere people gather around the fire to celebrate and purify evil, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness.
The 17 Januaryday of Sant Antonithe "beneïdes are at the centre of the festival, a ceremony in which animals are blessed by the priest for good health and protection during the year. Although originally only working animals such as horses and oxen attended the ceremony, today pets of all kinds also participate, reflecting the island's love and respect for animals.
The Eve of Sant Antoni
On the eve of Sant Antoniduring the afternoon and evening of 16 Januarythe peoples of Mallorca are filled with fogueronswhere people gather to enjoy a night of celebrations. These bonfires are accompanied by music and traditional dances, such as the dimonisThe foguerons, mythological figures representing the forces of evil, dress up in spooky costumes and walk through the streets. The foguerons are also an opportunity to enjoy the gastronomy localtraditional meats and sausages are cooked, such as the sobrasadathe botifarróand the back grilled, accompanied by peasant bread and a good wine.
The foguerons They are also an excuse to socialise and enjoy the company of friends and family, as each has its own atmosphere and peculiarities. Although some of them sell typical products, it is common for neighbours to organise themselves to share their own food and drinks, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Sant Antoni in Sa Pobla
One of the most representative places to experience the festival of Sant Antoni is Sa Poblaa municipality in the north of Mallorca known for its spectacular celebration. At Sa PoblaThe festivities begin on the evening of 16 January with the traditional fogueronsBut it is on the morning of 17 January that the festival reaches its peak. The "beneïdes at Sa Pobla attracts thousands of visitors who gather in the centre of the village to watch the animals being blessed. This act is accompanied by a large procession and typical music, with the xeremiers (Mallorcan bagpipers) as protagonists.
One of the most special moments of this holiday are the bigheadedgiant cardboard figures depicting Sant Antoni and their demons. These figures walk the streets of Sa Pobla while the children have fun following them. Moreover, in this municipality it is common to see floats decorated with rural scenes that travel along the main avenues.
Saint Anthony's Day and the "Beneïdes".
On the day of Sant Antoni is a day of recollection and celebration throughout the world. Mallorca. The day 17 January In many localities, the animals are taken to churches and squares to be blessed in a ceremony that symbolises the deep connection of Mallorcans with their rural and animal environment. On the island, especially in Sóllerare held "beneïdes very special, where the children receive traditional sweets known as "confitswhich are given by the elders as part of the tradition.
It is also traditional to taste typical dishes such as the spinagadaa coca filled with vegetables is served on this occasion. Throughout the day, processions and popular dances are held in honour of the saint, while the locals and the locals xeremiers accompany the celebrations with their traditional bagpipes.
Sant Antoni is not only a religious festivity, but also a cultural manifestation of the island, which highlights the importance of naturethe animals and the community in the lives of Mallorcans.
Live the Tradition of Sant Antoni from Posada Terra Santa
If you want to live the experience of Sant Antoni in all its essence, Posada Terra Santa is the ideal place to stay and to enjoy the traditional mallorcan festivals. This exclusive boutique hotel in Palma's historic centre offers you the opportunity to enjoy the festivities at your own pace. Its strategic location will allow you to get close to the most important events on the island and, at the same time, retreat from the hustle and bustle to relax in an environment of calm and elegance. Posada Terra Santa is an oasis of tranquillity that ensures the perfect balance between taking part in the celebrations and enjoying a comfortable and undisturbed stay.
