A flock of sheep, black pigs, geese and ducks, dogs and cats gather in the villages and towns on the island. Some of them patiently waiting, others excited and a little nervous about what’s to come. It’s Sant Antoni, today. When Mallorca celebrates the patron saint of animals. With music and dance, dimonis and fires. But also with the blessing of animals as well as pets. The beneïdes have a long tradition on the Balearic Islands. For centuries, the farmers sought protection for their animals…
Semana Santa: Happy Easter!
So many years and I am still both fascinated and a bit frightened watching Godfriday’s procession – a true medieval spectacle. The confrarias (brotherhoods) are pacing through Palma’s historic center, some of them barefoot, with chains around their ankles, paying for their sins. Others carrying floats displaying the sufferings of Christ, while the marching bands are playing sad tunes. But as we all know, in the end Jesus raises from death, so eventually winter will end, and spring and life…