In January, I use my remaining vacation days to drop by Cincu (Großschenk) again. This time I chose the date deliberately. Not (only) because of the construction progress, but because of a historic event: For the first time in over 25 years, an Urzelnlauf (Run of the Loles) is taking place this weekend.
This time I take the plane from Munich to Sibiu and rent a car from there. Upon arrival, I realize: Winter means business this year.
Tradition comes alive: The Urzelnlauf
On the one hand, I think it is great that an old Saxon tradition is being revived, and that is why I definitely want to be there. On the other hand, this is the perfect opportunity to integrate myself into the community. When else are so many people on the streets? It is a colorful hustle and bustle, loud and cheerful – a strong sign of the vitality of Cincu.
Info: What are the Urzeln?
The Urzelnlauf (Saxon custom) is an old guild tradition of the Transylvanian Saxons. Masked figures (the Urzeln or Loles) move through the village cracking whips and handing out donuts to drive away evil spirits and ring in the carnival season. The fact that this is happening again in Cincu after a quarter of a century break is a small sensation.
Minus 30 degrees: The endurance test for the house
Of course, I am also here to check on things. The winter was extremely cold this time, as it has not been for a long time. We are talking about minus 30 degrees Celsius and sometimes even lower. This is not only unpleasant for us humans, it also massively attacks the building fabric.
The problem is mainly – or actually only – evident in the area that was dampened by the leaking roof. Where there is water in the masonry, the frost bursts it. It is a sad but important sight to understand where we have to start in the spring.
The plan for spring
Despite the cold, Wolfgang and I discussed the further procedure. The schedule is set:
- Main House: This May, I will tackle the cracks in the masonry left by the frost and time.
- Former Carpentry Shop: Wolfgang and his crew are pushing ahead with this outbuilding. As soon as winter is over, the ring beam and the new roof will be installed.
- Floor: Also planned for May are the concrete slab and possibly already the partition walls.
A lot of work awaits, but for now, we celebrate – with the Urzeln and the neighbors.
