Land of customs

What sets Styrian Easter apart from many others

Today there are chocolate Easter bunnies in the nest - that wasn't always the case.(Bild: Sepp Pail)

Just in time for Holy Saturday, Easter fires and Easter crosses are lit in many places in Styria. But what does the symbol of fire stand for? And why does a rabbit hide colorful eggs on Easter Sunday? Customs expert Michaela Steinböck-Köhler provides insights into the Styrian history books.

Palmkatzerl, Easter bonfires and egg pecking: Easter is celebrated in Styria with many customs and traditions. Originating as a celebration of the beginning of spring, today it is primarily attributable to the Christian faith. However: "Customs are something fluid, not a rigid construct. Customs have always evolved throughout history and will always continue to do so," says cultural scientist Michaela Steinböck-Köhler.