Maschgra-Umzug in Kurtatsch

The Maschgra, the fifth season of the Bassa Atesina

The Maschgra-Umzug in Kurtatsch is the carnival festival that transforms the historic center of Cortaccia sulla strada del vino (Kurtatsch an der Weinstraße), a municipality in the province of Bolzano in Trentino-Alto Adige, every year. In the Bassa Atesina (Unterland), the carnival is known by the local dialect name 'Maschgra' and is considered the fifth season: a deeply rooted tradition that, through ancient rituals, costumes, and merriment, serves to banish the winter cold and welcome the arrival of spring.

The parade and its route

The colorful Maschgra procession starts at 2:00 PM from Ansitz Freienfeld and winds through the village, passing the Platzl and the Obergasse, before reaching the main square. Here, from 3:30 PM onwards, the festivities continue with music, good cheer, and the essential beer stalls (Bierbudl), along with food stands and refreshment points. Dozens of masked figures parade along the route: gypsies, witches, and other characters from Tyrolean folklore, keeping the hundreds of spectators in high spirits.

The Schnappviecher, stars of the procession

The most characteristic symbol of the Cortaccia carnival are the Schnappviecher, the 'snapping beasts': imposing, furry creatures up to three meters tall, equipped with long, toothed jaws that snap loudly. Unlike the 'Wuddelen' of the nearby village of Termeno, the Schnappviecher of Cortaccia are distinguished by their wild teeth. According to tradition, with their clatter and their stride, these characters represent the fight against evil and drive away the dark spirits of winter.

A Wine Road event

The Maschgra of Cortaccia is part of the rich calendar of carnival events that enliven the villages along the South Tyrolean Wine Road, from Fat Thursday to Shrove Tuesday. The modern version of the parade, featuring floats and allegorical figures, is inspired by the famous Egetmann parade in Termeno and is organized by the Kurtatscher Maschgra Verein, the local association of enthusiasts. Admission is free, and the atmosphere is that of a typical Bassa Atesina community celebration.