A “kroedwis” is a bundle of herbs that you hung above the stable or house door to protect the residents from evil spirits or other calamities, such as lightning strikes. Originally it was a pagan custom, but it was, as often happened, incorporated into Christian culture.

The bouquet was composed of 7 different herbs, flowers, fruits and ears of corn. The composition could vary from place to place or even from family to family. Most herbs bloom in the month of August, which is why a kroedwis is made at that time. Until the middle of the last century, these bundles were blessed during the mass on the Assumption of Mary (15 August).

At Open Air Museum de Locht, we keep the past alive. That is why we are going to make a kroedwis with children. They can compose the bouquet entirely to their own taste. Our helpful volunteers then tie a string or ribbon around it. Hang it up at home! Does it work…? Give it a try.