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What is the significance of Alpine fires? What is a "Pfingstbluettler"? Where are you likely to meet "Tschaaeggaaetta"? Switzerland is steeped in thriving traditions, some joyous and colorful, others a bit strange and unusual. Cultural historian Barbara Piatti describes in vivid detail the festivals and customs throughout the year in all four regions of Switzerland, delving into their origins, their peculiarities, and how they have changed over time. Yvonne Rogenmoser brings these Swiss customs to life with her fresh colored-pencil illustrations.
A fascinating book for the whole family!
About the author
Barbara Piatti has a doctorate in German and cultural history, and held academic positions at various institutions including ETH Zurich and Stanford University, before setting up her own company for cultural projects in 2013. For many years she has been dedicated to Swiss cultural history and has published several books on the subject.
Yvonne Rogenmoser was trained as a scientific artist, specializing in the transfer of knowledge through images. As a designer she is interested in anything that can be painted, illustrated, or composed. Her work ranges from cookery books to maps and she divides her time between the city of Zurich and the village of Versam in the Swiss Alps.
Summary
Fire and fur, bells and masks!
This book takes you on a very special journey through Switzerland to experience the traditional festivals and customs celebrated in all the seasons. Some are happy and colorful, others are wild and scary. You'll hear the thunderous noise made by bell-ringers and brass bands at Carnival. You'll see Hom Strom and his pillar of fire burning in the night sky. You'll meet a real Pschuurirolli—half human, half wild beast—and the dreadful Tschäggäta with their terrifying masks. On the journey, you'll also encounter shepherds, rifle queens, and men dressed as trees. At the bull market in Zug, you'll place a bet on the fastest pig; and in the Jura region, you'll admire the horse riders as they race bareback over the track. You'll even find out why the Griffin goes as far as baring his behind in Basel. You'll be surprised. And you'll laugh. And you just might be a little frightened, too. Are you ready?
This unique collection is a fascinating treat for the whole family.
