22/01/2023
Last 13th of January, I went to region of Appenzell to witness this old tradition of the „Silvester- chlausen“, this was on my bucket list for many years now.. The people of Appenzell, celebrate New Year’s Eve twice: once on December 31, and also on January 13.
„The date goes back to a dispute at the end of the 16th century when the Protestants of Ausser- rhoden refused to recognise Pope Gregory’s new calendar. For many local people, the former New Year’s Eve, according to the Julian calendar January l3th, is still the most important day in the year. „
„The actual origin of the custom is interpreted differently. Many are of the opinion that it developed from the tradition of St. Nicholas. Some associate it with an old fertility cult, others believe it is a demon or carnival custom. Heische or begging customs would also be conceivable.“ (Taken from the Museum of Appenzeller Traditions in Urnäsch)
I do believe this tradition comes mainly from a pagan past, but like many of these traditions, it has changed and adapt over time.
Here’s a gallery of pictures I took that day. It took me a while to select them, and still there a too many.. So have a look if you’re interested and have the patience and time.
