The neules calades, one of the most recognisable symbols of Christmas in Mallorca, have now been granted the highest level of cultural protection. The full council of the Consell de Mallorca has definitively approved their designation as Intangible Cultural Heritage (BIC), a form of recognition that highlights the artisanal production behind this centuries-old tradition.
In the centre, the Vice-President of the Consell de Mallorca, Antònia Roca, and the President, Llorenç Galmés, together with representatives of Mallorca’s neulers and neuleres groups. Photo: C. M.
The decision represents an institutional endorsement of an element deeply rooted in the island’s collective imagination. The neules, hung in churches and homes during the festive season, form part of the Christmas landscape and of the shared memories of generations of Mallorcans. With this approval, a process that began last December has been completed, driven by the aim of ensuring the preservation of a practice that goes beyond mere decoration. The declaration protects the artisanal know-how and the social significance surrounding the neules calades.
Advisory Council for Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Vice-President of the Consell and Councillor for Culture and Heritage, Antònia Roca, highlighted that this is the first case promoted by the Advisory Council for Intangible Cultural Heritage. This body was created in October 2024 with the aim of identifying and protecting cultural expressions unique to Mallorca.
As a result of this work, other procedures related to popular traditions have also been launched. These include the Mallorcan rondalles and the Beata procession, both of which continue to progress through the administrative process.
A Christmas with a Mallorcan flavour
To accompany the BIC designation, the Consell de Mallorca has launched a Christmas campaign focused on the neules calades. Under the slogan “A truly Mallorcan Christmas”, the institution aims to bring this tradition closer to the public and to strengthen its visibility.
Several emblematic spaces in Palma have joined the initiative. La Misericòrdia, the Palau del Consell and the Teatre Principal are displaying decorations created by artisan Macià Tugores, one of the most renowned figures in the making of neules.
The campaign also has a strong social dimension. The Consell has distributed 100,000 neules to care homes for older people and day centres, with the aim of sharing the tradition and encouraging its transmission between generations.
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