Fiery spectacle: eight perch run moves 2,500 visitors to Gleinstätten

Fiery spectacle: eight perch run moves 2,500 visitors to Gleinstätten

A fascinating spectacle was held in Gleinstätten last week - the eighth Perchtlauf of the Haslacher Perchten. Around 350 Perchten from all over Austria came together and attracted the eyes of around 2,500 spectators. In the solemn shine of light of the Gleinstätten Castle, visitors experienced an exciting spectacle that kept the tradition of the Perchten run alive and impressively displayed.

The association "Haslacher Perchten", which was founded ten years ago, is enjoying growing popularity and now counts around 60 members from the Leibnitz and Deutschlandsberg districts. "We want to strengthen our traditions, our customs and the team spirit in the group," said chairman Julian Haring. Together with Martin Robier and Maximilian Kremer, he heads the board and ensures that the association remains active.

intensive preparation for the run

The preparatory work for this year's Perchten run started in August. "Everything worked smoothly", Haring praised the support of the volunteer fire brigades Gleinstätten and Prarath, who contributed significantly to the organization of the run. The help of the helpers made it possible for the event to become great success.

The "Haslacher Perchten", however, are not yet at the end of their season. In the next few weeks you will take part in around ten further events. This traditional care takes place not only in the form of spectacular appearances; Community activities such as “Zeggern” and curling also contribute to strengthening the cohesion within the club.

The meaning of the perch

The Perchten tradition has its roots in Alpine mythology and is an essential part of winter use in regions such as Austria, Bavaria and South Tyrol. It is closely interwoven with the rough nights, the twelve nights between Christmas and Epiphany. During this time it is customary that the Perchten pull through the villages to complete the old year and to greet the new year, to drive away evil spirits and bring fertility.

The figures of the perches fluctuate between beauty and horror. A distinction is made between beautifully perches that symbolize light, life and fertility, and to be associated with chaos and destruction. The creepy shooting perches often carry elaborately designed wooden masks, decorated with natural materials and animal skins to keep evil spirits away.

With such impressive customs and living performances, the customs of the Perchten are not only preserved, but also staged excitingly. The event in Gleinstätten once again showed how important the traditions are for the community and the identity of the region, and it remains exciting to see how this tradition will develop over the years. For more details about this spectacle, See the report on www.meinbezirk.at .