National traditions of Austria. Habits, mentality and the way of living

During its thousand-year history, Austria has been a part of various empires. It has developed as an independent and strong state. This led to the fact that the Austrians managed to maintain their own traditions. At the same time, it absorbed a lot from other European cultures. The Austrian society, for a long time, was distinguished by a clear hierarchy and division into social classes. However, by the end of the 20th century, the middle class was noticeably stronger and stronger, so such differences became less noticeable. There is an aristocracy consisting of rich and famous families, whose history goes far into the past. However, the country is rightfully considered one of the most liberal in the whole of Europe.

People are characterized by the simplicity and observance of etiquette. Greetings, handshakes and even a kiss in the cheeks are obligatory. Formalities are highly respected, so leaving without saying goodbye almost certainly means offending a person. Local residents are very proud of their ancestors and generally honor their traditions. For example, they like to wear their national costumes, called Tracht. This outfit is often worn not only on holidays, but also at business days. The costume includes a blouse with wooden buttons and edelweiss patterns. Locals also wear different coats and dresses in traditional green and red colors. Such clothes is made of natural materials. It is simple and convenient, so Austrians like to wear it in everyday life.

Many established traditions in the life of the Austrians are associated with leisure activities. In particular, Austrian coffee houses have long been transformed into a memorable national phenomenon known far beyond the borders of this country. The tradition dates back to the end of the 17th century, when the Austrians got a lot of bags of coffee, which the Turks left behind during the set back. Since then, coffee houses have become a place where musicians, writers and other people gather. Today, local people also like to spend time here. Another popular places for pastime are the wine taverns, Heurigen, which are distinguished by a special atmosphere. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

For a long time, aristocrats of Vienna have become accustomed to arranging balls. This eventually turned into a kind of dance tradition. In our time, up to 300 different balls per year take place in the Austrian capital. Many kids attend dance schools; inability to dance is considered a bad form.

Often, you can meet a lot of traditions that were set by ancestors, but still not lost their popularity in our time. Sometimes, you can see how bachelors throw a straw braid with ribbons in the yard of pretty girls on All Saints Day. This is a statement that a young man is interested in a certain person. Young people in Austria are quite modern, but a tradition to put straw braids in the yards of girls still exists.

A huge number of traditions in Austria is associated with religious holidays. On Easter, it is customary to give gifts, as well as on New Year's Day or Christmas. At this time, family feasts, to which relatives are invited, are also arranged here. Local residents begin to hang wreaths decorated with ribbons with the onset of Holy Week. In many cities, various Easter fairs are held, where everyone can buy various delicacies, watch performances, and listen to the local musicians. Such events affect the way of life of the Austrians, because it is a good opportunity to demonstrate their customs. Numerous traditions are passed from generation to generation during hundreds of years.