Maibaum tradition: What is behind the custom in Bavaria!

Maibaum tradition: What is behind the custom in Bavaria!

Hundham, Deutschland - On May 1st, the maypole is traditionally set up in Hundham in the Miesbach district. This tradition has deeply rooted historical roots and can be attributed to precursors such as host, legal, dance, dance, freedom and honorary trees. The oldest known representation of a maypole can be found on a fresco by Hans Donauer, dated around 1590, in the Antiquarium of the Munich residence. As early as the 17th and 18th centuries, the custom of setting up love may, small trees, by young guys for their adored, was banned several times. Only King Ludwig I officially allowed this custom in 1827.

The maypoles themselves are often high spruce or fir; Birches are also used in some parts of Swabia and Franconia. These trees are artfully adorned with colorful ribbons, wreaths and hand -carved figures or panels. According to Naturlexikon Bayern , maypole reach record heights of over 50 meters, while many trees are measured around 30 meters. On the tree there is a wreath at its top that is associated with fertility.

celebrations and traditions

The installation of the maypole requires the commitment of many helpers and often takes place under the guidance of experienced older people. During the celebrations, not only the tree is set up, but also brass music is played and there is a lush snack with beer. The tradition of the maypole claws, in which neighboring villages try to steal the maypoles and bring back against a trigger, is also widespread. This humorous tradition promotes cohesion and is part of a greater festival that includes music, dance and food. Women play a special role in decorating the tree and watching over it to prevent thefts.

like Traditional life describes, the maypole is celebrated in many regions under the starry sky. The variety of customs is visible by the colorful ligaments and symbols on the tree, which have deeper meanings; For example, green stands for hope and red for love. The ligaments are also artistically wrapped around the tree in the ligament dance, while mayifiacs become "shameful trees" if the stealing is carried out, if no mutual repurchase.

a symbol of the community

The maypole not only symbolizes the beginning of spring, but also the community and the commitment of people. It often stops in the center of the town for up to four years, while in some regions the birches are dismantled at the end of May. Another custom associated with the maypole is the so -called love may, which are set up as a sign of the affection of lovers. These artistically decorated birches usually stand for a month and are a visible sign of romantic affection.

A moment, a Bavaria puzzle from tz and the Bavarian castle administration, in which the oldest representations of a maypole are under discussion. Participation is possible until June 5, 2025, 3 p.m., and the main prize is 5000 euros, and there are also further prices. The patron of the puzzle is the Bavarian finance and homeland minister Albert Füracker.