The spirit of Sant Antoni lives on in the Covid times
For the second consecutive year, the municipality of Capdepera is forced to cancel the festivities in honour of Sant Antoni, one of Mallorca’s most honoured saints. Unfortunately, and for obvious reasons, the typical ‘foguerons’ (fires), the ‘torradas’ (barbecue), the ‘dimonis’ (demons dances) and many activities that are a great attraction for many tourists who decide to visit the island in this post-Christmas period to enjoy, live and direct, this ancient and deep-rooted tradition that has its own moral: the triumph of good over evil.
The eternal struggle between Sant Antoni and the devil is represented by numerous activities with fire as the main element, as for a few days the gates of hell are opened to let the demons escape, but they are finally calmed down by the goodness of the saint. Thus, bonfires are lit in the streets and in private homes where ‘torradas’ (barbecue) of sobrasada and butifarrón are made, with local wines, and ‘glosses’ are sung (popular, naughty and spicy songs), which help to enliven the festivities.
The members of the brotherhood of Sant Antoni dedicate all their efforts to keeping the legacy of the festival alive, passing on its essence from parents to children and from generation to generation, and, although this year the crowded activities have been suspended, families and groups of friends will continue to celebrate this festivity in the shelter of their homes, always maintaining safety measures and looking towards a Sant Antoni 2023.
“Long live Sant Antoni!
Long live Capdepera!”
