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Krampus
While Saint Nicholas rewards good children, Krampus punishes the bad. Half-goat, half-demon, he carries chains and birch switches. On Krampusnacht, he roams the streets. Some say he's not just legend.
Ancient - Present
Alpine Regions, Central Europe
100000+ witnesses
Krampus is the dark companion to Saint Nicholas in Alpine tradition.
The Legend
According to Germanic folklore:
Krampus is:
- Half-goat, half-demon
- Companion to St. Nicholas
- Punishes bad children
- Carries them to hell
- Ancient pre-Christian figure
His Appearance
Described as:
- Cloven hooves
- Horns on head
- Long pointed tongue
- Dark shaggy fur
- Carries chains and switches
Krampusnacht
December 5th:
- Night before St. Nicholas Day
- Krampus roams streets
- Frightens children
- Punishes the wicked
- Celebrated with parades
The Tradition
In Alpine villages:
- Men dress as Krampus
- Parade through streets
- Chase people with switches
- Ancient tradition continues
- Deeply ingrained in culture
Pre-Christian Origins
Scholars believe:
- Figure predates Christianity
- Possibly a pagan deity
- Horned god tradition
- Winter spirit
- Absorbed into Christmas
Modern Resurgence
Today:
- Krampus runs popular again
- Films and merchandise
- Traditional runs continue
- Tourism attraction
- Ancient fear reawakened