La Beata in Valldemossa

Every 28 July Valldemossa celebrates Santa Catalina Thomàs, known as La Beata, who was born in the village in 1531. The highlight is the Carro Triomfal (triumphal carriage): at 21:30 it sets off carrying a local girl dressed as the Beateta, surrounded by her court of angelets (little angels), led by the padrí with a donkey carrying the flag, the pipers and a long line of carretons (carts) pulled by donkeys and horses, with children and adults in traditional peasant dress. Brass bands follow it through the village streets. The carriage began in 1896 in the gardens of the sa Coma estate, has gone through the streets since 1903, and is recognised by the Consell as intangible cultural heritage. In the morning, at 10:45, the Beateta parades to the church for the 11:00 mass; on the eve there is a mass and procession with the relic. Tip: drive up early, as the road and car parks fill up.