Krampus and Christmas Markets, but not only, as the Christmas holidays are spent in Austria, Vienna, Innsbruck, Salzburg and other beautiful cities of Austria.
THEAustria a Christmas it is truly a magical place, with its customs so particular and different from ours. Until my Erasmus in the city of Salzburg, my Christmas traditions could be summarized in broad terms as follows: on the 25th of December the tree is decorated and the lights are placed on the terraces, on the night of the eve Santa Claus arrives, and on the XNUMXth gifts are unwrapped and grandma Gabri's unique and inimitable tortellini in broth are eaten.
In Austria, however, the Advent period is experienced in a very special way. Already from the month of November, the markets they transform cities and villages into small Christmas worlds, where you can really feel the spirit of the holiday.
Some Christmas markets are bigger and more famous than others, but in any case the visit to a market always involves all the senses: from the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, to that of toasted almonds and Christmas sweets (a real treat for both the eyes than for the palate). Not to mention the many gift ideas, all the fruit of local crafts, which can be found on display in the wooden stalls set up in the festive squares, with Christmas carols in the background. You can find everything: hand-painted blown glass balls to hang on the tree, beautiful colorful decorations made with dried fruit and spices, nativity scenes, toys, candles, and a thousand other curious objects.
The best known markets are undoubtedly the Vienna Markets, but very beautiful are also those of Innsbruck of Salzburg. The historic Salzburg market is that of the Child Jesus, which takes place in the Domplatz and Residenzplatz squares; the one set up at the weekend in the Hohensalzburg fortress is just as beautiful but in addition it offers a beautiful view of the festively lit city.
One of the most bizarre traditions is the one that sees the protagonists Krampus, scary horned demons. According to local folklore, these half-man, half-goat beings roam the streets of cities and towns to punish children who have not behaved well during the year, unlike San Nicolò which rewards good children. In short, it is a sort of Befana, who instead of carrying coal roams the city terrorizing passers-by.
It is quite common to meet Krampus during the Christmas season, especially in the busiest streets and alleys. According to tradition, only men can participate, sometimes in women's clothes, with their faces hidden by devilish masks and wearing tattered, dirty and worn clothes. And as if their already threatening appearance wasn't enough, the Krampus announce their presence with cowbells and horns as they lash passersby. In short, a quiet afternoon at the markets can turn into a general stampede somewhat creepy! If you happen to come across one of these demons, however, remember to play along and never reveal their true identity. In fact, being "unmasked" is the greatest dishonor for a Krampus.
In addition to markets and quirky Krampus, many localities organize free Austrian sacred music concerts in churches and entertainment activities for adults and children, such as large ice skating.
Austria is a country that has so much to offer and at Christmas it really gives its best. If you have a weekend available this winter, I really recommend you give it a little thought!
