Christmas customs in Lower Austria: traditions that warm hearts
Christmas customs in Lower Austria: traditions that warm hearts
The contemplative Christmas is a time full of traditions and rituals for many that are deeply anchored in culture. These customs help to bring the spirit of the holidays and to experience the importance of Christmas. Numerous traditions are duly celebrated in Lower Austria and have their roots in past centuries or even millennia.
On December 4, the commemoration day of St. Barbara, a very special tradition is cultivated. Before sunrise, branches are cut off from fruit trees or shrubs and placed in water. A fascinating background of this custom says that St. Barbara, who is considered an early Christian martyr, got stuck on a branch on her way to prison and took it with him. On the day of her conviction, the branches blossomed, which should be for luck in the coming year.
the rushing murmurers
Another significant custom are the murmurets, the mystical nights between Christmas and the three-king day. These nights are primarily used to drive away evil spirits and negative energies from their own four walls with the help of smokers. This is done by burning healing herbs and incense, a tradition that was passed on by our ancestors.
Another beautiful tradition is the Advent wreath, which is relatively new and was created in the 19th century. At that time the wreath was equipped with 24 candles, today there are only four that are supposed to spread a relaxed and peaceful mood. The colors of the candles reflect the liturgical colors of the Catholic Church, with three candles being purple and a pink.
symbolism of Christmas tree and crib
The Christmas tree and the crib are central elements of the Christmas customs, which are of great importance in the diocese of St. Pölten. The Christmas tree, which was originally known as the "paradise tree" in the 17th century, symbolized life before becoming an integral part of the Christmas season in the Austrian households. The crib, which Jesus shows in a feed trough, tells the Christmas story in a very vivid way.
The duration of the advent varies: This period covers the last four Sundays before December 25th and can begin between November 27 and December 3. This flexibility makes the advent time particularly exciting and variable, rich in tradition and significant for many people.
The anticipation for Christmas is often accompanied by profound wishes. Many use this contemplative time to pause and think about what is really important in life. Wishes often not only end up in the material, but also reflect a deeper longing for peace, health and broken times with the family.
personal messages and peace
Another beautiful element of this time is to give personal wishes. Instead of ready -made cards, individually written messages or handwritten letters gain in importance. These personal messages not only express thoughts and gratitude, but also create interpersonal connections that are often forgotten.
An additional light beam into this special time brings the peace light from Bethlehem, which is distributed in many communities. It is ignited in the birth grotto of Jesus and symbolizes hope and peace. In Lower Austria, scouts and fire brigade youth groups collect it, which bring it to churches and town halls and thus continue the sign of peace.
Overall, Christmas in Lower Austria embodies a deeply rooted connection to traditions that shape people's lives. These customs and emotions create an atmosphere of togetherness and joint experience.