What to expect
In Mallorca the nativity scene is called a betlem, and during the Christmas season it matters more than the Christmas tree. Many families set one up at home, and churches, town halls and local associations display their own. They traditionally go up around 8 December and come down after Three Kings' Day.
In Palma, a walk through the old town is worth it. The City Hall on Plaça de Cort usually displays a large nativity scene that you can see for free. The cathedral and the Basilica of Sant Francesc also have nativity scenes during the season. Many of the figures are made of fired clay and painted by hand: clay figures have a long tradition on the island, and you will also find them at the stalls of the Fira de Nadal if you want to add to your own scene. Typically Mallorcan are the secondary figures from village life, from the farmer to the baker.
The living nativity scenes, the betlems vivents, are a tradition of their own. Residents of a village re-enact the Christmas story in costume, often in old lanes or on a country estate, with craftspeople, animals and scenes from everyday life in earlier times. Most recently there were performances in Deià and Sa Pobla, among other municipalities. They usually take place on just a few days. The municipalities publish their dates in December, which is why we do not list specific days here.
Which public holidays and opening hours apply during this period is covered in our guide to Christmas in Mallorca.
Practical tips
- Check opening hours: The City Hall and churches have their own hours, and during public holidays and services the nativity scene is often not accessible. Check the city's or the church's website before you go.
- Living nativity scenes: From early December, look for dates on the websites of the ajuntaments and in local media. Good spots go quickly, so at popular performances arriving early matters more than a precise plan.
- Costs: The nativity scenes in the City Hall and churches are usually free to see. Some living nativity scenes ask for a donation.
- With children: A nativity walk through Palma's old town is short and combines well with the Christmas market.