Röhlinger rider group shines at the largest blood ride in Europe in Weingarten

Röhlinger rider group shines at the largest blood ride in Europe in Weingarten

On Blood Friday, the Friday after Ascension Day, the largest equestrian procession in Europe, the traditional Blood Ride, took place in Weingarten. Around 1,800 riders from 96 blood rider groups gathered in bright sunshine to take part in this impressive event. The blood rider group of the Röhlingen riding and driving club was also represented with seven riders, who were accompanied as pilgrims by family members and friends. This tradition has existed since 1973, when the group first traveled to Weingarten.

The Röhlinger riders, consisting of Wolfgang Walter, Maria Walter, Denis Abele, Helmut Hohnheiser, Robert Jakob, Renate Berhalter and Inga Maierhöfer, were well prepared to take part in this festive event. The group has been led by Gebhard Bühler, the honorary chairman, since 1999, after Josef Betzler, the “saddler” from Röhlingen, was in charge for many years.

Tradition and history of the blood ride

The blood ride has its roots in a corridor with the Holy Blood relic, which was brought in 1094 by Juditha, Richard III's daughter. from Normandy, came to Weingarten. This relic, part of a treasure found in Mantua, was donated to the monastery and has been a central part of the celebrations ever since. Over the years, the equestrian procession has evolved and is now open to women, after a long phase in which only male riders were allowed to take part.

The participants in the blood ride are represented in all age groups; many over 70 years of age still actively ride, while young riders aged six and over can also take part. This year the blood rider groups from Jagstzell and Neuler were also present, which underlines the community and festive nature of the event.

An unforgettable experience

Dean Ekkehard Schmid was there again this year as a Holy Blood Rider and contributed to the festive atmosphere of the blood ride. With between 1,800 and 2,000 riders from southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland every year, this custom shows not only the connection to the region, but also to the traditions and values ​​that have been preserved over the centuries.

The Blood Ride is a remarkable example of the vibrancy of local culture and the importance of traditions in the community. The Röhlinger riders are proud to be a part of this history and are already looking forward to the next participation in this extraordinary event, which has long since become a fixed tradition for many.