In Greek legend, mischievous goblin-like creatures called Kallikantzaroi emerge during the Twelve Days of Christmas to play troublesome pranks. To repel them, traditions include burning salt or an old shoe, as the pungent smoke and crackling sounds are believed to drive them away or at least discourage their mischief.
The Mischievous Kallikantzaroi of Greek Christmas
Imagine the festive season, filled with joy and warmth, suddenly interrupted by mischievous, goblin-like entities intent on causing chaos. This is the reality for many in Greek folklore during the Twelve Days of Christmas, when the infamous Kallikantzaroi are said to roam the earth.
Who Are the Kallikantzaroi?
These subterranean dwellers are typically depicted as grotesque creatures: black-furred, with glowing red eyes, tusks, and often a limp. For most of the year, they reside underground, tirelessly attempting to saw down the World Tree that supports the earth. However, as Christmas approaches, they abandon their destructive task, drawn to the surface by the festive atmosphere, ready to wreak havoc.
From Christmas Eve until Epiphany (January 6th), the Kallikantzaroi delight in all sorts of troublesome pranks. Their antics range from spoiling food and urinating in fireplaces to breaking household items and generally causing a nuisance. They are not inherently evil, but their mischievous nature can certainly dampen the holiday spirit.
Traditional Defenses Against Christmas Mischief
Fortunately, Greek tradition offers several inventive ways to deter these unwelcome holiday guests. One of the most common and intriguing methods involves the use of everyday items transformed into powerful repellents.
- Burning Salt: A handful of salt thrown into the fireplace is believed to scare them away. The loud crackling noise it produces, combined with the sudden burst of light, is thought to be highly unpleasant for the Kallikantzaroi.
- Burning an Old Shoe: Perhaps the most distinctive deterrent is burning an old, foul-smelling shoe in the hearth. The strong, acrid smoke and pungent odor are considered an effective way to drive the creatures from the home. The more unpleasant the stench, the better!
Beyond these pungent practices, other protective measures include:
- Keeping a fire continuously burning in the hearth throughout the Twelve Days, preventing them from entering through the chimney.
- Marking doors with a black cross on Christmas Eve.
- Hanging garlic at entryways to ward off evil.
- Leaving a colander on the doorstep, as the Kallikantzaroi are said to be compelled to count its holes, distracting them until sunrise.
- Offering sweets or other foods to appease them, a practice known as 'kolyva', sometimes left on rooftops.
The End of Their Reign
The reign of the Kallikantzaroi concludes on January 6th, the Feast of Epiphany. On this day, the waters are blessed, and the creatures are forced to retreat back to the underworld to resume their task of sawing the World Tree. It is said that when they return, they find the World Tree mysteriously regenerated, forcing them to start their arduous work anew, only to emerge again the following Christmas season.
This rich tradition highlights the fascinating blend of ancient beliefs and Christian customs in Greek culture, offering a unique and colorful layer to the celebration of Christmas.