Almabtrieb

Kufstein Almabtrieb 2005

A close-up of a wreath (Obermaiselstein 2005)

As Almabtrieb ( Bavarian ), Alpabfahrt ( Alemannisch ), Alpabzug ( Switzerland ) or Viehscheid ( Allgäu ) is the name given to the transfer of cattle from the mountain pastures ( alpine pastures ) into the valley, where they overwinter in the stables of the farms. The time of the cattle drive is determined by the lack of grass growth or cold spells and varies from region to region between mid-September and mid-October.

regional customs

If the alpine summer passed without fatal accidents for humans and animals, the herds for the drive are artfully decorated in many areas and the cattle drive is combined with music and dance events. These festivals used to mark the end of alpine life in September or October. The alpine rose ( alpine rose ) or mountain pine are traditionally used for the headdresses of the animals, as well as the silver thistle and silk flowers. The crown cow, who traditionally leads the herd on their way to the local stables, plays a special role. She receives an unusually large headdress, which is intricately woven from branches, flowers, grass and ribbons in the form of a crown. Usually the wreath shows a cross, with which the protection of heaven is implored, as well as mirrors and bells to ward off evil spirits. In the Liechtensteiner Oberland , the best dairy cows are traditionally decorated with wooden hearts that are later nailed to the outer walls of the cattle sheds.

Today this custom has become a tourist attraction celebrated with specialties (alman noodles) in many places. In the early summer, usually around Pentecost , the subsequent boost takes place , but mostly (Austria and Germany) without any special events. After the cattle drive in the valley, the so-called cattle shedding takes place on communal pastures, during which the animals are returned to their owners. In the Allgäu the cattle drive is called Viehscheid, but mostly the locals simply speak of Scheid. There are also regional differences in other localities. In Schnalstal traditionally the sheep that have arrived in the village are sheared (Schafsschoad). The return of the animals is often celebrated with other ceremonies such as music groups and Schuhplattler.

literature

Gerald Unterberger: Those who go with the cattle. The autumn procession of the cattle drive and a special type of decorative cattle. The "bull's fur" - a cosmological symbol with West African parallels? In: Communications from the Anthropological Society in Vienna , Volume 142, Vienna 2012.