Intangible cultural heritage

Oral sources indicate that Wreath Riding came into being during the 16th century, after the plague had wreaked havoc on Weitensfeld. The four survivors of that plague outbreak were the damsel of a villa called Thurnhof and three burghers’ sons. In order to choose her future husband, the damsel held a race—the winner of which she would permit to marry her. Wreath Riding arose as a way of commemorating this occurrence, with the race itself remaining the event’s core element. These days, the winner is awarded the wreath (Kranzel) and a silk scarf of the Stone Virgin (Steinerne Jungfrau), a statue that stands in the centre of the market square and serves as the Wreath Riding mascot. The second-placed competitor receives a myrtle bouquet and a woollen scarf, and the competitor in last place receives a bunch of hog bristles and a calico scarf. The winner—and only the winner—is allowed to give the Stone Virgin a hug and a kiss. Traditionally, every runner donates his prizes to a girl of his choice. And to conclude the event, all of the couples dance the Gurktalerwalzer, which—here—is also known as the Jungfrauenkusswalzer [Virgin’s Kiss Waltz].

Alongside the competitors, regional associations (including volunteer fire brigades, rural youth groups, and traditional costume groups) as well as the local brass band are involved in organising and running the Wreath Riding event.

Downloads

• Application form (in German only) 185 KB (pdf)
• Expertise Drobesch (in German only) 798 KB (pdf)
• Expertise Lackner (in German only) 723 KB (pdf)