Chalandamarz in Val Fex

Description

On March 1st, the Chalandamarz in the village of Sils takes place. "Chalandamarz, chaland´avrigl, laschè las vachas our d´uvigl..." The roots of Chalandamarz can be traced back to pagan times, among the Romans. The month of March is dedicated to Mars, the god of sun and war. According to the Julian calendar, the year began in March, and in warmer regions, spring also started at this time. This event was celebrated with grand festivals to ask Mars for his blessing for fields, meadows, and livestock. The Romans also played an important role in the Engadine and left traces of their customs. Whips cracking, bells ringing, and singing drive away the invisible spirits. This noise is supposed to instill fear in the winter (spirit) and thus awaken fertility. Read more about Chalandamarz on our Sils history.