I am a Murtaler - Perchten

Whether Fohnsdorfer Gruab'n Perchten, Zeiringer Silberteufel or the Birkenbrüder - there are many different Perchten groups in the Murtal. They scare us with their chain rattling, fire and bell ringing.

But they are not as evil, as we might think. Perchten are supposed to drive away the evil ghost in winter, so it's no wonder they look so scary. In contrast to the Krampus, who are modelled on human faces, the faces of Perchten are modelled on animals. The Krampus is the evil counterpart to the good, friendly St Nicholas. Perchten, on the other hand, oppose evil and drive away the ghosts in the cold, dark season.

Murtal Region:  „What does connect you with the Murtal?“

Perchten: „We are tradition and this is upheld in the Murtal.“

Murtal Region: „When do you feel the heartbeat in the Murtal?“

Perchten: „At the Perchtenlauf, the spectators are not the only ones whose hearts are beating up to their necks. It's so exciting and thrilling for us, it's great to be admired by so many guests and we don't mean any harm, a little tension and fear are just part of it."

Murtal Region: „Where is favourite place in the Murtal?“

Perchten: „There are so many great places in the Murtal. We feel best in the dark, which can be in the caves of the mountains, in mine tunnels or in the depths of the forest. Here you can hide wonderfully.“

Do you like to visit a Perchten run? You can find the dates at www.murtal.at/events