The Carnival of Basel, held annually in the Swiss city of Basel, is renowned for its unique traditions, one of which is the “Zeedel”. But what exactly is a “Zeedel”, and why is it so significant during the Cortège, the main parade of the carnival?
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Understanding the Zeedel
A “Zeedel” is a small piece of paper that contains a satirical or humorous message, typically written in Baseldytsch, the local dialect of Basel. These messages, known as “Verse”, often target local politicians, celebrities, or current events, adding a touch of humour and social commentary to the carnival’s proceedings.
The Historical Significance of Zeedel
The tradition of the Zeedel in the Carnival of Basel dates back to the early 20th century, though its roots can be traced even further back to medieval times. Street performers of that era would use songs and poems to poke fun at the authorities, a practice that has evolved into the Zeedel of today.
Zeedel during the Cortège
During the Cortège, the Zeedel becomes one of the most anticipated aspects of the Carnival for locals. But a statement like that is always hard to make – there are so many anticipated highlights at the Basler Fasnacht (as we in Basel-german call it).
Back to the small pieces of paper, lovingly called Zeedel. Attendees eagerly reach out to catch these pieces of paper as they’re thrown from the trucks and wagons. Some carnival-goers even bring bags to collect as many Zeedel as they can. While the Verse written on the Zeedel may be challenging for non-Baseldytsch speakers to understand, they form an integral part of the carnival’s history and traditions.
In conclusion, the Zeedel serves as a symbol of the Carnival of Basel’s spirit, combining humour, satire, and local cultural references in a unique tradition that sets the carnival apart from others around the world.