What types of offerings or items do Mallorcan families bring when participating in exhumation rituals?

Mallorcan families participating in exhumation rituals typically bring several meaningful offerings and items as part of this deeply rooted cultural tradition. These offerings are intended to honor and maintain a connection with their ancestors. One of the central items families bring is food, often homemade and carefully prepared. Traditional sweets, especially ensaïmadas—a soft, coiled pastry unique to Mallorca—are common, alongside other typical Mallorcan cakes and bread. These edible offerings symbolize respect and nourishment for the deceased.

In addition to food, families often bring flowers, particularly seasonal blooms, to place on or near the exhumed remains. These floral tributes serve as a sign of remembrance and love. Some families may also bring candles, which are lit during the ritual to represent guidance and the presence of the spirit. The exhumation itself is a very solemn occasion, and the items brought are chosen to reflect reverence and continuity, blending both Christian customs and local Mallorcan traditions.

Personal mementos or photographs of the deceased might also be present, underscoring the personal nature of the ritual. In some cases, families bring wine or other beverages to share after the exhumation, as communal bonding is an important element of these gatherings. Overall, the items carried to the exhumation ritual illustrate a balance of respect, memory, and celebration, embodying the unique cultural practices surrounding death and ancestry on the island. These offerings help create a meaningful atmosphere where past and present relatives come together in remembrance.