Leonhardi-Ritt in Nußdorf: Faith, horses and lived tradition
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Leonhardi-Ritt in Nußdorf: lived faith on four hooves
When on November 6th horses and riders move towards the St. Leonhard church, a traditional day of faith, gratitude, and village community becomes visible in Nußdorf on the Inn. The Leonhardi-Ritt connects Catholic faith practices with lived customs and offers visitors an impressive faith experience in an autumnal atmosphere.
A tradition with a long history
The Leonhardi-Ritt has been celebrated in Nußdorf since 1776 and takes place on the feast day of Saint Leonhard. The saint is regarded as the patron saint of livestock and especially of horses. For the horsemen, who are the horse owners and riders of the village, this ride marks a special holiday in the yearly calendar.
Field Mass, Parade, and Horse Blessing
The event day begins at 2:00 PM with a field mass at the Leonhardskirche. Following this, festively decorated horses, riders, and carriages proceed in the traditional parade around the church. Here, both horse and rider are blessed. The religious act makes the close connection between prayer, gratitude, and rural life palpable.
Spiritual atmosphere and community
Church bells, hoofbeats, and festive costumes shape the unique atmosphere around the Gothic chapel with its prominently visible spire. About 200 horses participate in the parade. The interplay of liturgy, regional tradition, and communal experience makes the Leonhardi-Ritt a religious experience for locals, families, horse lovers, and interested guests.
The church of St. Leonhard as a historical place
The current church was built after a fire in 1754 and adorned in the Rococo style. Artistic ornaments, several altars, and the history of the former Scapular Brotherhood characterize the sacred nature of the place. After the parade, the festival day traditionally ends with a social gathering of the horsemen.
Conclusion: Experience tradition live
The Leonhardi-Ritt in Nußdorf on the Inn invites you to experience a vibrant Catholic tradition up close. Visitors can look forward to a field mass, an impressive horse parade, the blessing of people and animals, as well as a strong sense of spiritual community. Those who appreciate regional customs and religious rituals will experience a special afternoon at this historical place.
