To meet Krampus in Mariazell

In the middle of the Austrian Alps, in a picturesque part of Styria, the town of Mariazell has been the spiritual heart of Austria for centuries. Although it has just over 4,000 inhabitants, its importance goes far beyond the country's borders. Mariazell is the largest and most famous pilgrimage site in Austria and attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over Europe every year. But even at such a pilgrimage site, hell can happen. The Krampus Devils have a long tradition here, and it is here that you can experience the Riviera Tour.

Krampus, the infernal escort of St. Nicholas

In addition to its religious significance, Mariazell also has a very rich cultural and folk life, which is most evident during Advent and the winter holidays. This is when spiritual contemplation and ancient Alpine customs are combined.

The figure of Krampus comes from ancient Alpine mythology and folk customs. Its name probably comes from the Bavarian word Krampen, meaning "claw". Krampus represents the dark creature that accompanies Saint Nicholas during his visits to houses and towns. While St. Nicholas rewards good children with gifts and sweets, Krampus punishes the naughty ones.

The roots of this character go deep into pre-Christian times, when people believed in demonic beings associated with cold, fertility and protection of homes. The Church later reinterpreted these customs and combined them with the figure of Saint Nicholas, creating the pair of "good and evil", i.e. Nicholas and Krampus.

Krampuslauf: the devil's run in Mariazell

The highlight of the Riviera Tour to Mariazell this year will be the Krampuslauf "parade". After dark, a group of hell-raisers will march through the main square with their allegorical floats and fire.

During the Krampuslauf, dozens to hundreds of Krampus masks accompanied by St. Nicholas, angels, but also various Alpine demons and fairy tale characters parade through the streets of the city. The event is accompanied by the loud sound of bells, the clanking of chains, fires, lighting effects and traditional music. The atmosphere is tense, but at the same time full of joy.

The Krampuslauf in Mariazell is one of the most famous and authentic in Austria. Krampuses come to the town from different regions - from Styria, Lower Austria and Salzburg. Each group has its own masks, costumes and entourage. The parade is very carefully organized and complete with safety zones for spectators so that children and families can enjoy the event.

The origin of Mariazell: the monk Magnus and his boulder

And how did the Mariazell pilgrimage site itself come into being? According to an old legend, the history of the town began as early as 1157, when a Benedictine monk named Magnus travelled from the monastery of Sankt Lambrecht to found a small hermitage in the wild mountains. Blocked by a huge boulder, Magnus prayed to the Virgin Mary for help. The boulder, according to legend, miraculously broke, and the monk built a small wooden cell called "Zell" on the spot, in which he placed a statue of the Virgin and Child Jesus. It was from this simple beginning that the name Maria Zell, "Mary's cell" was later born.

On the site of a modest chapel, a beautiful church was built in the 14th century, which was later rebuilt in Baroque style and now bears the title Basilica of the Virgin Mary. Inside the church there is a famous statue of the Virgin Mary made of lime wood, carved in the 13th century. This tiny statue is known as the "Magna Mater Austriae", or "Great Mother of Austria", and has become a symbol of the spiritual protection of the whole country.

You can visit the Basilica during the tour at your leisure before the parade. Another great attraction is a visit to the Pirker Lebkuchen gingerbread experience, where you will have the opportunity to taste the fragrant symbol of the city - traditional honey gingerbread.

Go to Mariazell with a Riviera Tour

Let yourself be carried away by the magic of the Advent Mariazell and experience the unforgettable atmosphere of Krampuslauf! Go on a journey with the Riviera Tour with the smell of punch, Christmas lights and Austrian traditions.

This year you can join us in Krampus to meet St. Nicholas and the devil on this date: