Tyrolean Easter Graves

In the second half of the last century, especially in the 1970s, many of these Easter graves were dismantled as "outdated" and stored in the attics of the rectories. In recent years, there has been a rethinking, and these treasures have been brought out again and mostly meticulously restored.

The "Holy Graves" can be seen in some churches all year round, but they are usually only set up during Holy Week and Easter. They receive their typical decoration with colorful glass balls, which, when illuminated by candles or oil lights, create a very special, very atmospheric play of colors, only during Holy Week.

The custom of Easter graves dates back to the 17th century and was intended to illustrate to the church people the central event of the Christian faith. A two-dimensional, imaginative scenic landscape is usually set up around the grave with the body of Christ. In addition, many of these scenic altars are equipped with mechanical devices to achieve special "stage effects" that are aimed at the curiosity of the pious audience.

One of the most beautiful examples of such an Easter grave can be found in the parish church of Patsch near Innsbruck. Under a representation of the fall of man, there is the grave, in which the body of Christ is displayed for all to see from Good Friday. But in the Easter night, the magnificent glory descends from the altar and covers the grave. During this time, the "body" is pulled out of the grave, so that when the glory rises again, it is empty: the "resurrection" is complete!

The Pestkapelle in Imst also has "special effects" to offer: here, a machinery conjures up drops of sweat on the face of the Savior. The Easter grave in the parish church of Telfes in the Stubaital, on the other hand, is so elaborate in its construction that it can only be admired in its full form every four years. Extremely impressive are the three consecutively arranged scenic arches, for the representation of Jesus on the Mount of Olives, even a separate background image is inserted. During the celebration of the resurrection, the "body" of Christ is also removed from the grave here and then appears above the grave as the Risen One.

Two other extraordinary Easter graves can be admired in the parishes of Pettneu am Arlberg and Stanzach in the Außerfern. These are models that were produced in series in the 19th century - in contrast to the unique pieces of earlier times. Two companies in the Bohemian Olomouc and in Hall in Tyrol were leading in the production of such graves.

One of the most beautiful Holy Graves in South Tyrol can be found in Niederdorf in the Pustertal. It is set up in the hospital church on Good Friday and decorated in the typical way with colorful glass balls.

Many more of these Easter graves - large and small and with a variety of special features - could be mentioned. Take advantage of the Easter season to discover some of these cultural and historical treasures!