Goaslschnöllen - Whip cracking in South Tyrol 

When a leather whip is shaken, it crackles and pops. And it sometimes causes red ears and nasty wounds on the skin if not handled correctly.

In the past, the Goaßl or Gaßl (whip) was used, among other things, to show the animals who was in charge or, it was said, to noisily awaken the spring at the end of winter. Why do these whips make such noise?

Because they are swung with two hands, forwards and backwards, from side to side. A deafening bang is generated between the forward and backward swing. The whips are six metres long and consequently difficult to handle.

In Pustertal Valley, whips are traditionally only used from Guardian Angel Sunday (1st Sunday in September) to 3rd Sunday in October, which is why it is generally called 'Kirchtagskrochen'. In the rest of South Tyrol, this traditional way of celebrating is used throughout the year. There are many occasions for this: at the return of the cattle, folk festivals, parades, etc.