Mountain in Flames
Celebrate the longest day of the year
Chains of lights can be seen across the hills, and crosses, while hearts and other symbols glow beneath the mountain peaks upon nightfall, heralding the shortest night of the year.
At one time these midsummer bonfires were backed up by various myths and a strong belief which was deeply entrenched in the people, whereas these days they blaze for the most part ‘light-heartedly’.
A set date in the year to come together, revive and let this tradition thrive. Young and old alike are amazed by the fire which can be seen from quite a distance. The chains of lights which rise above the mountain ridges really are an impressive sight. What a fantastic way to welcome summer which lies before us! Happily the times are long past when this fire was lit on certain peaks to act as a beacon, like those lit in 1809 to celebrate the Tirol ‘Landsturm’ – the Tirol men who went to battle and who stood up to Napoleon’s troops.
It is predominantly young people, who, heavily laden with torches and other inflammable implements, who climb up to the summit - in parts very difficult to access - early in the morning to lay out the sites for the fires. In the evening the first ‘Herz-Jesu’ and solstice fires blaze, and this is frequently the starting signal for traditional solstice celebrations with dancing and local specialities. In some places, predominantly mountain lodges or guesthouses, you can experience the mountain fire up close, since these are lit in the immediate vicinity too. Mid-range mountain terraces in Silberregion Karendel, on the Weerberg, Vomperberg, Pillberg...) also provide excellent viewing platforms from where you get a dream view to the ‘burning mountains.
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