The Festival of Rei en Jaume: Traditions and Legends of the Conquest of Mallorca

The Festival of Rei en Jaume is celebrated annually to commemorate one of the most significant events in Mallorca’s history: the arrival of King Jaume I and the conquest of the island. This event took place in the 13th century and marked the beginning of a new era in Mallorcan history.

At ROIG, we want you to get to know our beloved island better when you visit and to enjoy our festivals and traditions. With our car rental service in Mallorca, you can explore the entire island and discover its hidden corners and secrets. Are you excited to learn about our history?

Historical origins: The arrival of Rei en Jaume in Mallorca

In the early 13th century, Mallorca was under Muslim rule. The island was a coveted target for the Christian kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula, which were engaged in the Reconquista.

King Jaume I of Aragon, known as Jaume the Conqueror, decided to conquer Mallorca for various reasons. Beyond economic and strategic interests, he sought to expand his kingdom and strengthen his position in the Mediterranean. In September 1229, Jaume I gathered a large fleet and army, composed of nobles, knights, and soldiers from various kingdoms, to launch the expedition.

On September 5, 1229, Jaume I’s fleet arrived on the shores of Santa Ponça, in southwest Mallorca. According to the chronicles, the arrival was complicated by weather conditions and Muslim resistance. Jaume I’s advance towards Palma was also filled with confrontations, but on December 31, 1229, after months of siege, Palma finally fell into the hands of the conquerors. Jaume I implemented new laws and administrative structures, promoted repopulation with Christians from the Iberian Peninsula, and encouraged economic and cultural development.

Today, the arrival of Rei en Jaume and the conquest of Mallorca are celebrated annually with the Festival of Rei en Jaume in Santa Ponça. This festival features historical reenactments, parades, medieval markets, and various cultural activities that pay tribute to this historical moment.

If you choose our car rental service in Mallorca, you can easily travel to this town and experience firsthand the excitement of this festival that commemorates a very important moment in our history. At ROIG, we also offer chauffeur-driven cars in Mallorca if you prefer not to drive.

Main celebrations: Key events and activities of the festival

The event that marks the beginning of the Festival of Rei en Jaume is the historical reenactment of the king’s landing. This takes place on the beach of Santa Ponça, where participants, dressed in medieval costumes, recreate the arrival of the king’s fleet and the landing of his troops.

The medieval parade is another highly anticipated moment of the festival. Participants dressed in period costumes, including knights, nobles, musicians, and dancers, march through the streets of Santa Ponça. This parade, accompanied by medieval music and dance performances, recreates the atmosphere of 13th-century Mallorca.

Another highlight of the festival is the tournaments and jousts held in a specially prepared venue. Knights, equipped with armor and lances, compete in exciting duels and displays of equestrian skills.

The Festival of Rei en Jaume also includes a variety of activities specially designed for children: craft workshops, medieval games, interactive shows…

And we cannot forget one of the festival’s culminating moments: the reenactment of the final battle between Jaume I’s troops and the Muslim forces. This is done in a carefully controlled environment and recreates the intensity of the clashes that ended with the conquest of Palma.

Legends and myths: Fascinating stories of the conquest

Attending the Festival of Rei en Jaume is one of the most unique and exciting things to do in Mallorca. This event helps us understand the island’s history and better appreciate the origins of the Mallorcans and the various legends related to this historical event. Do you want to know some of the most intriguing ones? Here they are!

The Monk’s Prophecy

One of the best-known legends is that of the monk’s prophecy. It is said that before starting his expedition, King Jaume I was visited by a monk who revealed a vision to him. According to the monk, God had destined the king to free Mallorca from Muslim rule.

This prophecy inspired Jaume I and his troops, giving them the confidence and determination needed to carry out the conquest. The legend holds that divine intervention was key to the campaign’s success.

The Hidden Treasure of Abu Yahya

Another fascinating story is that of Abu Yahya’s hidden treasure. It is said that knowing defeat was imminent, Abu Yahya hid an immense treasure in a secret cave in Mallorca.

According to legend, the treasure consists of gold, jewels, and valuable artifacts, and to this day, it remains hidden somewhere on the island. Many adventurers have tried to find this treasure, but none have succeeded.

The Moorish Princess and the Christian Knight

Among the romantic legends, the story of the Moorish princess and the Christian knight stands out. According to tradition, during the clashes, a Christian knight fell in love with the wali’s daughter, a beautiful Moorish princess. Despite being on opposite sides of the conflict, their love was so deep that they decided to run away together and live in secret.

It is said that they found refuge in a hidden cave and lived the rest of their days away from war and cultural differences. Their story is seen as overcoming the barriers of religion and war.

Popular participation: How Mallorcans live the tradition

Mallorcans actively participate in the Festival of Rei en Jaume to celebrate this historical event together. One of the highlights of the festival is the participation of Mallorcans in the historical reenactments. Dressed in medieval costumes, residents represent key characters of the conquest, including soldiers, nobles, and citizens of the time.

The victory parade also involves the entire community. During the parade, Mallorcans march through the streets, carrying flags and symbols from Jaume I’s era. Music, dance, and traditional songs accompany the procession, creating a unique and energetic spectacle.

Come to Mallorca and celebrate the Festival of Rei en Jaume with us, a unique event where history and tradition come together. At ROIG, we offer the best car rental deals in Mallorca so you can move freely around the island. And if you arrive by plane, you can opt for our airport transfer service to pick you up in the most convenient way possible.

Immerse yourself in Mallorca’s history and join us at the Festival of Rei en Jaume. You’ll love it!