The Georgiritt in Traunstein

After two relaxing days at Lake Chiemsee, we visited the Georgiritt in Traunstein to round off the Easter weekend. The Georgiritt in Traunstein is one of Bavaria’s largest horse pilgrimages. The procession takes place every year on Easter Monday and commemorates Saint George, who is considered the patron saint and helper of knights, riders, horses, and wanderers.

The route leads from the central town square – in Traunstein’s old town, which is worth seeing in itself – to the Ettendorf chapel on the other side of the valley, where the blessing traditionally takes place. From there, it returns.

The procession is a colourful mix of historical re-enactment, living tradition, and a declaration of Christian faith. The horses’ saddles and bridles are decorated, and their manes and tails are often artfully braided.

Participants wear their respective local traditional costumes or historical clothing and robes, ranging from medieval times to Roman armour. From the smallest pony to large cold-blooded horses, a variety of breeds can be admired, ridden or led by young and old. Every now and then, teams with wagons carrying entire brass bands pass by.

The centuries-old tradition of the Traunstein Georgiritt and the Sword Dance, also performed on this occasion, are living cultural heritage.

For such experiences, you don’t even have to travel far; you can discover regional offerings. This very culture is, in turn, appreciated by many guests and travellers to Bavaria.