Archive for the ‘Austrian Traditions & Customs’ Category

Austrian Customs and Traditions vary according to the region you’re in. Not everyone in Austria walks around in Lederhosen or a dirndl (close fitting bodice combined with an apron in a different color), although various traditions and celebrations are an integral part of Austria.  Yet, go outside of the main cities  such as Vienna, Graz and Salzburg, and the country becomes fairly rural, with small communities, which traditionally were and are resistant to cultural change.

Lederhosen and dirdl

Traditions Steeped in The Past

As a result, many old traditions and customs survive.  Some of these date back to Celtic and Roman times, others were introduced by Bavarian and Slavic people.

A major influencing factor was the rule over the area by Charlemagne and the introduction of Christianity to the region.  This subsequently evolved into the inclusion by the Church of old pagan customs into its own mythology, which ensured the preservation of older customs and tradition and has led to Austrians retained a strong sense of celebration, rituals and symbolism, resulting in many colorful and varied festivities.  Read more... (578 words, 2 images, estimated 2:19 mins reading time)