Chalandamarz in Samedan

Chalandamarz, Chaland'avrigl, laschè las vachas our d'uvigl...

The roots of Chalandamarz can be traced back to pagan times, to the Romans.

The month of March is dedicated to Mars, the god of the sun and war.

According to the Julian calendar, the year began in March, which also marked the start of spring in warmer regions.

This event was celebrated with grand festivities to ask Mars for his

blessing on the fields, meadows and livestock.

The Romans also played an important role in the Engadine and left traces of their customs there.

Whips crack, bells ring and singing drives away the invisible spirits.

This noise is intended to frighten the winter (spirit) and thus awaken fertility.