Particle.news
Download on the App Store
6 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Centuries-Old Sorbian Easter Horse Processions Draw 1,500 Riders in 2025

The traditional Osterreiten, a public display of faith and cultural heritage, featured nine processions across the Sorbian Lausitz this Easter, with 270 riders participating in Ralbitz.

Image
Image
Männer sitzen auf schwarzen Pferden und halten rote Fahnen hoch: Es handelt sich um das traditionelle sorbische Osterreiten, hier in der Oberlausitz – ansonsten bemalen die Sorben Ostereier und haben noch andere Osterbräuche
Image

Overview

  • Approximately 1,500 Catholic Sorbian riders participated in nine horse processions across the Sorbian Lausitz region on Easter Sunday 2025, proclaiming the resurrection message through song and prayer.
  • Ralbitz hosted one of the largest processions, with around 270 riders, including 16 first-time participants identifiable by green myrtle wreaths on their coats.
  • The Ostritz ecumenical Ostersaatreiten, a seed-blessing procession that began in 1993, marked its 396th edition this year, blending faith with agricultural traditions.
  • Tourists and locals gathered in large numbers to witness the festively dressed riders, highlighting the event's significance for regional tourism and cultural preservation.
  • Peruvian cook Helery Hantschick provided meals for the Ralbitz riders, emphasizing the community effort behind sustaining this cherished tradition.