What to expect
Es Firó is the emotional highlight of the year in Sóller. The town commemorates 11 May 1561, when residents repelled an attack by Ottoman corsairs. For over 150 years the battle has been restaged as a huge re-enactment: half the town dresses up as Pagesos (Christian farmers) or Moros (pirates), and staged battles rage at four locations between Port de Sóller and the town centre.
The fighting begins in the afternoon on the beach, where the pirate boats land, then moves through the town to the final battle on Plaça Constitució. The festival also honours the Valentes Dones, the two sisters who, according to legend, struck down intruding corsairs with a door beam. In the evening it all ends with the Christians' victory and a shared celebration.
The Monday is the climax of a whole festival week (Ses Fires), with a market, concerts and fireworks on the preceding weekend.
Practical tips
- Getting there: On Firó day, Sóller is effectively sealed off. The most relaxed way in is the historic train from Palma or the bus; there is hardly any parking for cars.
- Crowds: Tens of thousands of visitors; the battles are loud, dusty and full of firecrackers. Sturdy shoes and old clothes are a good idea if you want to be close to the action.
- Costs: Everything in public spaces is free.
- Date: The festival Monday is traditionally the second Monday in May. The Ajuntament de Sóller confirms the dates each spring.