They propose declaring 2026 as the Year of James I to commemorate the 750th anniversary of his death.
The proposal includes twinning with the city of Alzira, where the monarch died, to strengthen historical and cultural ties.
PalmAt the next plenary session of the Consell (Consell), next Thursday, MÁS por Mallorca will defend a motion to declare 2026 as the Year of James I, coinciding with the 750th anniversary of the death of the king known as the Conqueror. The initiative proposes a far-reaching institutional commemoration that not only recognizes the monarch's historical importance but also serves to strengthen collective identity and disseminate his cultural and political legacy.
"Without Jaume I, we cannot understand the history and current reality of Mallorca. Therefore, the Consell must take the lead in a tribute that connects citizens with our roots and projects our identity into the future," declared MÉS spokesperson Catalina Inés Perelló. She argued that the 2026 anniversary is a unique opportunity to promote cultural, educational, and institutional activities that highlight Mallorca's history and culture from a shared and open perspective.
The motion proposes the creation of a commemorative committee with the participation of historians, cultural organizations, municipalities, universities, and other relevant institutions to coordinate all initiatives. It also urges the Government of the Balearic Islands and the Spanish government to become involved in the commemoration, providing institutional, logistical, and financial support.
Furthermore, the proposal includes the twinning of Mallorca with the Valencian city of Alzira, where James I died on July 27, 1276. This is a gesture that, according to MÁS, will contribute to strengthening historical and cultural relations between territories united by the memory of the monarch. "The twinning with Alzira symbolizes the desire to forge historical and cultural ties between peoples," stated MÉS deputy spokesperson Joan Llodrà.