A new tourist attraction was created in Palma de Mallorca a few months ago, the recreation of a historical military changing of the guard. I went to Palma yesterday to watch the show and, yes, I was reasonably impressed.

It all goes back to 1808 when the Regimiento de Voluntarios de Palma was established due to Spain’s involvement in the Guerra de la Independencia, with France and Napoleon being on the other side. The Regimiento de Infantería Ligera Palma 47 is the successor of the old volunteers; they are nowadays based at Palma’s Palau de l’Almudaina. Guards and soldiers of this Light Infantry Regiment now put on historic uniforms once a month to, on the last Saturday of the month, perform the historic ritual of the Relevo de la Guardia de Honor (Changing of the Guard). The colourful ceremony starts at 12h00 sharp with the exception of the summer months of July and August when, for reasons of excessive lunchtime heat, the guards will change at the more suitable hour of 19h30. Whilst upholding the traditions of the past for one day per month, the soldiers also perform duties throughout the island and indeed, Spain, as professional army personnel and are known as some of the most skilled soldiers in the Fuerzas Armadas (Spanish Army).

A visit is recommended. Early attendance would allow you a better view. The performance is reenacted in front of the Almudaina Palace, between the Palau and the Cathedral. Admission is free.

The photo (top) was taken in Palma de Mallorca, Baleares, Spain. The date: January 30th, 2010. The time was 12:14:16. The photo (bottom) was taken from the Internet. My thanks go to diariodemallorca.es and the photographer, Lorenzo.

Muchas gracias.