Carnival in Mitteleuropa

Carnival is a celebration rich in history and traditions that transcends the cultures of different nations. In particular, the regions of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Slovenia, Austria, and Croatia offer a variety of unique festivities that reflect their deep-rooted cultural heritage. In this article, we will explore the Carnival traditions of these areas, highlighting the events planned for 2025 and drawing parallels between the masks and customs that define them.

Friuli Venezia Giulia

In Friuli Venezia Giulia, Carnival is characterized by a series of events that blend tradition and modernity. One of the most anticipated events in 2025 is the European Carnival, which will take place in Gorizia on February 22, preceded by a special preview in Trieste on February 21. The parade will feature 18 groups from Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Slovenia, and Friuli Venezia Giulia, emphasizing the cross-border and multicultural nature of the event.

Among the traditional masks of the region, the Rollate of Sappada stands out. This imposing figure wears a fur costume and a wooden mask, embodying the spirit of the local Carnival. In Sauris, the protagonists are the Rölar, with a soot-blackened face, and the Kheirar, who wears a wooden mask and carries a broom, symbols of ancient propitiatory rites.

Slovenia

In Slovenia, Carnival—known as Pust—is a festival with pagan origins deeply rooted in local culture. The most famous mask is that of the Kurent, a benevolent demon dressed in sheepskin with large cowbells, whose role is to chase away winter and summon spring. The town of Ptuj hosts the famous Kurentovanje, a parade that attracts visitors from all over the world to witness these dancing and noisy figures.

Other traditions include the Laufarji of Cerkno, wooden masks representing various community characters, and the Škoromati of Slovenian Istria, masked figures who roam villages spreading joy and driving away evil spirits.

Austria

In Austria, Carnival, known as Fasching, is celebrated with parades and balls throughout the country. One of the most intriguing traditions is that of the Krampus, demonic creatures who accompany Saint Nicholas on December 5. These fearsome masks, adorned with horns and fur, serve the purpose of punishing naughty children, in contrast to the kindness of Saint Nicholas.

In Tyrol, the celebrations include the Mullerlaufen, a parade featuring elaborate masks that represent mythological figures and animals, symbolizing the expulsion of winter and the return of spring.

Croatia

In Croatia, Carnival is a cherished tradition in many cities, with Rijeka hosting one of the country’s largest Carnival events. The Rijeka Carnival 2025 will take place from January 17 to March 5, featuring a series of events that showcase the region’s cultural diversity.

Traditional Croatian masks include the Zvončari, bell-wearing figures who parade through the streets to ward off evil spirits and welcome spring. These characters, dressed in zoomorphic masks and colorful costumes, are recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.

Parallels and Differences

Despite their local peculiarities, there are numerous parallels between the Carnival traditions of these regions. In all of them, masks play a crucial role in symbolizing the expulsion of winter and the arrival of spring, often through loud and frightening rituals aimed at banishing evil spirits.

Figures like the Slovenian Kurent, the Austrian Krampus, and the Croatian Zvončari share elaborate costumes, large bells, and imposing masks, all of which serve a symbolic role in the festivities. However, each tradition maintains its unique features, reflecting the diverse histories and cultures of their respective regions.

Carnival in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Slovenia, Austria, and Croatia represents a rich tapestry of traditions that, while sharing common roots, offer a wide range of unique cultural expressions. Attending these festivities in 2025 will be an extraordinary opportunity to immerse oneself in centuries of history, folklore, and community celebration.