Origin of the custom

On the trail of Krampus, Perchten and Nikolo

Countless children are already eagerly awaiting the visit of St. Nicholas - but are also afraid of Krampus.(Bild: Andreas Tröster)

Soon St. Nicholas will come to the house and give presents to the children. At his side is his "dark servant" - who is already traveling across the country as a harbinger. Where this spooky figure comes from and what distinguishes it from Perchten.

Traces of the St. Nicholas custom go back to the monastery schools of the Middle Ages. Once a year there was an inspection by the bishop. He had the right to control everything - and also to punish or reward ...