Chalandamarz in Celerina

Chalandamarz, Chaland´avrigl, laschè las vachas our d´uvigl...

The roots of Chalandamarz can be found in pagan times, among the Romans.

The month of March is dedicated to Mars, the god of the sun and war.

According to the Julian calendar, the year began in March and in the warmer

warmer regions, it also marked the beginning of spring.

This event was celebrated with grandiose festivals to ask Mars for his

blessing for fields, meadows and livestock.

The Romans also played an important role in the Engadin and left traces of their customs.

traces of their customs. Cracking whips, ringing bells and singing

singing, the invisible spirits are driven away.

This noise is said to instill fear in the winter (spirit) and thus awaken fertility.

Procession follows