Christmas in Mallorca is a season rich in tradition, history, and spirituality — celebrated in a truly special way at this time of year. We at Nivia Born Boutique Hotel invite you to immerse yourself in the most authentic essence of the island by discovering two of its most outstanding Christmas traditions: the neules calades (cut-paper decorations) and the singing of the Sybil. This journey through crafts, music and devotion will allow you to connect with Mallorcan culture in a unique atmosphere.
Neules calades
Neules calades are classic Mallorcan Christmas decorations made of white paper with intricate cut-outs depicting stars, angels or floral motifs. Historically hung in churches and homes, they remain a prominent feature of Christmas to this day, lighting up the festive atmosphere with a magical touch. Each “neula” is a unique work of art, the result of the patience and manual dexterityof its creators, and embodies the confluence of spirituality, Christmas customs and Mallorcan folk art. This centuries-old legacy is kept alive thanks to the institutions led by the Council of Mallorca, which promote various initiatives such as school competitions and decorating historic buildings, thus ensuring the continuity and recognition of this ancestral tradition.
The Song of the Sybil
While the neules calades provide visual beauty, the singing of the Sybil offers the most solemn soundtrack to Christmas in Mallorca. Of medieval origin, this liturgical performance has been declared part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO and is performed on Christmas Eve in many churches on the island.
The Sybil has its roots in the Middle Ages, where it formed part of the Christmas Matins, dramatising biblical passages to bring them to life for general audiences. Its lyrics prophesy the coming of Jesus Christ as a judge, announcing the end of the world and the salvation of the just — although the Council of Trent banned its performance, the tradition endured in Mallorca and as of the Second Vatican Council, it once again became part of the official liturgy, performed nowadays with the voice of a boy, girl or woman who sings under the solemn atmosphere created by the organ accompaniment while dressed in a white tunic and carrying a sword.
We at Nivia Born Boutique Hotel invite you to discover the neules calades which traditionally adorn the island’s churches, and to marvel at the Song of the Sybil, an experience sure to immerse any visitor in the magic of a Mallorcan Christmas.