A Time-Honored Tradition in Wallachia In the quaint eastern villages of the Czech Republic, particularly in the region known as Wallachia, an ancient pre-Christmas tradition endures. Here, St. Nicholas doesn’t just bring joy but also a touch of fear, leading a parade accompanied by figures representing the devil and the grim reaper.
The Procession of St. Nicholas In the village of Lidecko, the procession is an integral part of the festive season. For three days, several groups march door to door, with St. Nicholas offering sweets to children, a comforting gesture after their encounter with the parade’s more ominous characters.
A Blend of Fear and Festivity The unique feature of this tradition lies in its characters. The devils are adorned in homemade masks crafted from sheepskin, while their companions, the grim reapers, carry white scythes. This blend of fear and festivity marks a stark contrast to the more familiar, jolly depictions of St. Nicholas.
Pagan Roots of the Tradition This custom traces back to the pagan era, long before the advent of Christianity in the region. It is believed that the masks and costumes were used by the mountainous region’s inhabitants to protect themselves from the demons of winter.
The Legacy of St. Nicholas The central figure of this tradition, St. Nicholas, was a revered Christian bishop from the ancient town of Myra. Celebrated for his kindness and generosity, he lived during the 3rd and 4th centuries and is considered the inspiration behind the modern-day Santa Claus.
