St. Nicholas & Krampus in South Tyrol
Originally, St. Nicholas and Krampus always came together. The Krampus, or devil, used to threaten the naughty and bad children with a rod or to take them away in a big chest on their backs. Despite that the Krampus was a frightening creature with heavy chains and loud cowbells, he always had to obey St. Nicholas. This fact symbolises the good triumphing over the evil.
The Krampus’ origins
The Krampus or devil, such as many demonic creatures of the Alpine area – dates back to pre-Christian times. In many regions, the Krampus figure has merged with the Perchten tradition. The typical Krampus has a coat or suit made of fur and hand-carved mask with horns. In South Tyrol, pine wood was and is the most used wood type for these masks. A collection of worth-seeing Krampus, devils and witch masks is for instance also displayed at the Crib Museum Maranatha in Luttach.
Krampus parades
Whereas the Krampus must obey St. Nicholas in former times, the Krampus parades today are majorly just for the Krampus and witches. In South Tyrol, many villages and cities organise Krampus parades, some with over 1000 Krampus. The oldest Krampus parade takes place each year in Toblach, a big parade every two years in Kastelruth with more than 50 groups from Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. Other parades take place in Sexten, Sand in Taufers and Lana.
Images
The krampus accompany St. Nicholas during the parade through the historical centre of Brixen.
Brixen Tourismus Genossenschaft - Helmut Moling
During the traditional parade in the historical centre of Brixen, well-behaved kids are given sweets by St. Nicholas.
Brixen Tourismus Genossenschaft - Helmut Moling
During the Krampus parades or Krampus runs in South Tyrol, the Krampus and Devils are among themselves.
IDM Südtirol/Marion Lafogler
Devil procession in South Tyrol
Internet Consulting - Sabine Oberheinricher
The krampus in South Tyrol have a very old tradition!
Internet Consulting - Sabine Oberheinricher
Krampus are afraid not only children but also many adults!
Internet Consulting - Sabine Oberheinricher
The Krampus is the enemy of St. Nicholas and punishes bad children. On the day of krampus (December 5) in many countries of South Tyrol's are held beautiful parades.
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