Krampusnacht

In this episode, we dive into the chilling Alpine legend of Krampus - the horned, cloven-hoofed enforcer of Saint Nicholas who doesn't just reward good behavior, but punishes the naughty. From medieval folklore to modern mayhem, we trace how this demonic figure survived through the centuries to become a beloved terror of the holiday season. Then we take you straight into the heart of Salzburg's Christkindlmarkt, where the annual Krampuslauf turns the festive streets into a riot of rattling chains, roaring masks, and firelit chaos.