Traditions in Leogang: Bachlschneid at the Hüttschmiede

A Day Full of Theories

It’s Advent season, and Christmas Eve is approaching. In the Pinzgau region, December 24th has a special name: Bachltag. The origins of the term are shrouded in mystery, with multiple theories explaining both its meaning and spelling: Bachl, Bachi, or Bache. One possibility is that it comes from baking the Bachllaib (a type of fruit bread) sliced with a sharp knife (the Bachlschneid) on Christmas Eve. Others trace it to the dialect word Bache, meaning bacon or ham traditionally enjoyed during the holidays. Another cherished tradition still practiced in many families is preparing Bachlkoch on December 24th—a dish made of flour, milk, and butter. Up until the mid-18th century, chimneys were cleaned on Christmas Eve using branches known as Bachlboschen. There’s even a theory connecting the name to bathing in the Bachlstube (a bathing room), as it was customary to welcome "the Lord’s arrival" with a clean body and soul.

Sharp Knives for Bread and Bacon

At the Hüttschmiede in Leogang, located next to the Mining and Gothic Museum, the tradition of ensuring sharp knives (Bachlschneid) for Bachltag has been revived. "Before families gathered for Christmas festivities, certain chores had to be done. Traditionally, all the household knives were sharpened on December 24th," explains Sigmund Riedlsperger, organizer of the Hüttschmiede. He chuckles as he adds that sharp knives were essential because the often overly hard Bachllaib had to be sliced, and the freshly smoked Bachl Speck (bacon) needed to be thinly cut.

The Sharpening Stone at Work

Young and old, locals and tradition enthusiasts gather on the Friday before December 24th at the Hüttschmiede. It’s a time for conversation and reflection, far removed from the hustle and bustle of commercialized Advent. "We see this Bachltag, with its Bachlschneid tradition, as a counterbalance to the hectic Christmas season," Riedlsperger explains. For sharpening, a genuine natural whetstone is used - but caution is advised: serrated and ceramic knives are not suitable for this process. Proudly showing off the large, round sharpening stone, Riedlsperger remarks that knives sharpened on Bachltag are said to stay sharp for an entire year.

The Revival of the Hüttschmiede

For decades, the old forge stood unused. However, it was restored several years ago and is now operated by six passionate, retired blacksmiths. During summer months, they demonstrate their craft every Wednesday, and visitors can take home handmade nails as souvenirs. The forge’s revival has also been well received by locals. "Farmers bring their tools for repairs, and elements for trail safety are made for the Alpine Club," says Riedlsperger, who waves to Hermann Mayrhofer, curator of the Mining and Gothic Museum: "Hermann, come over and tell us more about this special place."

A Significant Chapel

It doesn’t take long before the enthusiastic historian begins recounting the story of the nearby Annakapelle. "The chapel has received much recognition from experts. Its altar painting uniquely combines religious veneration and mining history. It depicts Saint Anna, Mary, Barbara, Sebastian, John of Nepomuk, Daniel, and Florian, alongside the entrance to a mining tunnel and a mining structure. Such a fusion is exceptionally rare."

Starting from Scratch

The preservation of Leogang’s 3,200-year mining history is largely thanks to Hermann Mayrhofer. During his 40 years as the town’s municipal clerk, he noticed a declining connection to local history. In 1989, he started with no exhibits but a deep appreciation for the Annakapelle and Leogang’s mining heritage, which lasted until 1970.

Guardians of History

Over the years, Leogang’s Mining and Gothic Museum has gained a stellar reputation for its exceptional and high-quality exhibitions, both nationally and internationally. A particular highlight is the focus on "Saints’ Veneration in Mining," with remarkable artifacts on display.

Salzburg, once a powerful prince-archbishopric, became a center for art and culture in Europe, largely due to its rich mining resources. The museum vividly illustrates these connections.

Good to Know

In 2007, the museum gained significant attention when an 800-year-old, valuable Limoges cross was donated. A woman from Zell am See had discovered it in a trash container. With over 120 different minerals found in Leogang, the region ranks as Austria’s second most mineral-rich area. Minerals from Leogang are featured in renowned museums and private collections worldwide.

Images: Edith Danzer, friendship.is