What to expect
In the week before Easter, Palma's old town becomes an evening stage for the Semana Santa. 33 brotherhoods, the Cofradías, process through the lanes: at the front the Nazarenos in their long robes with pointed hoods, behind them heavy floats bearing figures of Christ and the Virgin Mary, accompanied by drums, brass bands and incense. Some brotherhoods date back to the Middle Ages, others were founded only in the 20th century, and each has its own colours and its own route.
It all begins on Palm Sunday with the blessing of the palm and olive branches, among other places at the cathedral, followed by the first processions. Throughout the week, Cofradías process through different quarters almost every evening. The undisputed highlight is Maundy Thursday with the Processó de la Sang: the figure of the Crist de la Sang, the bleeding Christ from the church of La Sang on the Plaça de l'Hospital, is carried through the city centre in a procession lasting several hours. Thousands of Nazarenos from all the brotherhoods take part, many barefoot or carrying candles, and spectators line the route shoulder to shoulder.
Good Friday brings the Descent from the Cross and the mourning procession of the Sant Enterrament, before the week ends on Easter Sunday with the joyful encounter procession and festive services. On the culinary side there is the Panada, the filled Easter pie, plus Robiols and Crespells from the bakeries.
Practical tips
- Getting there: On foot or by bus into the old town. Many streets are closed during the processions, so allow for detours.
- Crowds: On Maundy Thursday from around 7 pm the route of the Sang procession is very full. You get a good view along wider stretches such as La Rambla or Unió.
- Costs: All processions are free to watch. A Panada costs about 2.50 to 4 EUR at the bakery.
- Etiquette: These are religious mourning processions, not parades. Do not walk through the columns, avoid flash photography and keep conversations quiet.