Perkeo’s Maschggra - Carnival in Salorno

The origins of the Salorno carnival - known as "Maschggra" (from "mask") in the South Tyrolean dialect - date back to the 19th century. Until around 1900, an Egetmann parade was held in Salorno on the Wine Road. "Perkeo's Maschggra" represents the revival of the carnival tradition in Salorno: It takes place in even-numbered years, meaning it will return in 2026. Numerous associations and groups of friends dress up to represent a trade or a social group.

Consequently, it alternates with the Egetmann Parade in Termeno, where the adult parade takes place in odd-numbered years and was first documented in 1591. The central figure is Perkeo, who symbolically rules the village for a week during "Perkeo's Maschggra". He is said to have been a dwarf born in Salorno around 1702. As a court jester at Heidelberg Castle, he rose to become the cupbearer to the Elector Palatine Charles III Philip. In this capacity, he guarded a huge wine barrel.

According to legend, every time someone offered him a glass of wine, he replied "perchè no?" (why not?). His end is also legendary: A doctor advised him to drink a glass of water for the sake of his health. No sooner said than done - and Perkeo dropped dead... Unusual and forward-looking: Unlike other carnival traditions, both women and men are allowed to take part here.