Customs of the carnival period in the Innsbruck Land, Austria. All photos: Zeltfest der Faschingsgilde Zirl nach dem Faschingsumzug 2013.
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The Christmas season draws to a close. Everyone awaits the awakening of nature. The customs of the carnival period in Tirol used to be seen as a public offence. It was never forgotten. This shows how deeply rooted this tradition was and still is. The procession is a parade of many different figures of the carnival period that all demonstrate the fight of good and evil, light and dark, and right and wrong.
This opposition of Zottler and Tuxer, of bear and beater, and of many more used to take place in farmers' homes. It wasn't until the 20th century that this custom was moved to the streets to be seen by a broader audience. The carnival in all Tyrol is still very popular today. All villages and their people take part in the procession, as well as certain traditional carts that ride in the procession. Traditional figures, such as Zottler, Tuxer, Fleckler, Zaggeler, the witches can be seen, as well as the bear, the Fasserrößl, and the buck. Local societies showing not only their village but also their folk humor.
Some of the Symbols and Figures of Carnival in Tyrol
The Spiegeltuxer
The Spiegeltuxer's headdress weighs around 12 kilograms, and is made up of a mirror in the middle, which is surrounded by feathers and flowers. It represents spring and the coming of summer. The mirror is supposed to drive away the evil spirits of winter.
The Zottler
These figures represent the harshness and coldness of winter. The stomping of feet and wild dancing intensify the roughness. With every movement the colorful jute threads hanging off of the costume are thrown around in every direction. The headdress consists of peacock feathers and furs.
The Zaggeler
These figures represent fall and the coming of winter. The colorful costumes with tassels and bells are to keep winter away. Black cock feathers and a hat made of rabbit's or fox fur make up the headdress.
The bear
The bear also represents winter.
Text based: www.gastronomieportal.at