One of the most important traditions in Mallorca is the Chant of the Sibyl, which is performed on the 24th of December in all the churches on the island.
This chant of medieval origin is part of Mallorca’s culture and is still performed today as it was in liturgical celebrations centuries ago. If you are in Mallorca for Christmas, you cannot miss this special tradition that forms part of UNESCO's Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Read on to find out all the details about the Chant of the Sybil in Mallorca!
What is the Chant of the Sibyl?
The Canto de la Sibila is a musical event that takes place at midnight on the 24th of December in different churches in Mallorca.
Full of solemnity and beauty, the chant is performed by a soloist dressed in a tunic who intones a few stanzas in Latin without musical accompaniment, only an organ that sounds between stanzas. In his hands, the performer holds a sword which he keeps straight in front of his face throughout the chant. He ends by placing it in the shape of a cross.
The lyrics of the Song of the Sibyl refer to the birth of Jesus Christ, which is announced by the character of the Sibyl, a figure adopted by Christianity to announce the day of the Last Judgement.
History of the Chant of the Sibyl
The Sibyl arose in the Middle Ages as part of the liturgical celebrations leading up to Christmas. Its origins lie in the depictions of the Last Judgement and the prophecy of the coming of Christ. The chant came from Catalonia after the conquest of James I and was banned by the Council of Trent in the 10th century. Since then, it has only survived in Mallorca and El Alguer, where it is still performed today.
Where to see the Chant of the Sibyl in Mallorca
The Chant of the Sibyl is performed in all the churches of Mallorca, but without a doubt the most important performance is in the Cathedral of Santa Maria in Palma de Mallorca. Here, the majestic atmosphere of the cathedral adds an extra element of solemnity to this ancient tradition.
Another of the most spectacular performances of the Chant of the Sybil is that of the Santuari de Lluc, a 13th-century sanctuary located in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
Experience Christmas in Mallorca
To witness the Chant of the Sybil is to immerse yourself in the island's rich history and tradition. If you celebrate Christmas in Mallorca, don't miss the opportunity to witness this unique experience and stay at Finca Serena Mallorca, located just 30 minutes from Palma.
Our 5-star hotel in Mallorca offers you a charming Christmas atmosphere to spend the last days of the year. Here you will enjoy a stay full of peace and warmth, surrounded by the best landscapes of the island. The ideal refuge for a Christmas getaway in Mallorca.
Check out the Christmas Eve and Christmas menus at Restaurante Jacaranda, featuring typical Mallorca Christmas dishes as well as nougat and Christmas sweets. Check our Christmas menu and book a gastronomic experience of luxury and tradition.
In addition, during the last days of the year we offer various Christmas decoration workshops, a pottery workshop and an exclusive New Year's ritual.
