The Weihnachtsmann has an unusual roll to play in German Christmas celebrations. In some parts of Germany, mainly in the North, he is said to bring the presents to the children on Christmas Eve. In much of Germany and especially in the South this is the job of the Christkind. The confusion seems to have come about because of the different way that the protestant and … [Read more...]
Lametta
Lametta is a Christmas decoration found in German homes and in particular on Christmas trees. Similar to tinsel, it is hung over the branches to simulate icicles. Originally it was made from a substance called "Stanniol", which is Tin (Sn) flattened to make it into a foil. To add weight to the Lametta, lead or even silver were added. Often this meant that it was used on … [Read more...]
Bergmannsfigur
The Bergmannsfigur is a traditional Christmas decoration in the Erzgebirge area of Germany. They are wooden figures that hold a candle in each hand. On becoming a father it was the duty of each man to make one of these figures, in the shape of a miner for a boy or an angel for a girl. These were placed in the windows of the houses and provided candlelight for the streets … [Read more...]
Weihnachtskrippe
Weihnachtskrippe is the name given to a Nativity scene in Germany, often found in town centres during advent. It depicts the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Many families have their own model Weihnachtskrippe at home. Some of these are self-made, others have been collected over a period of time with a new figure being added each year. Typically, these are also passed down … [Read more...]
Räucherkerzen
Räucherkerzen are candles that produce a scented smoke. Commonly found scents are incense, pine, cinnamon and honey. Coming originally from the Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) they are often used as part of Christmas decorations, such as Räuchermännchen. … [Read more...]