The ‘Viflaim’ is an ancient folk tradition with pre-Christian roots, carefully preserved in Vișeu de Jos and the surrounding villages of Historic Maramureș. This theatrical folk performance, inspired by the Holy Scriptures, reenacts the Nativity of Jesus and features biblical characters such as Joseph, Mary, King Herod, the Messenger, the Innkeeper, the Angel, two Shepherds, the Three Wise Men, two Soldiers, Death, the Devil, the Old Man, and the Guard.
What sets the Viflaim of Vișeu de Jos apart from similar customs in other regions of Romania is the inclusion of the “devils” as key characters. These figures wear enormous cowbells, locally called ‘droange’ or ‘dube,’ each weighing up to 100 kg (220 lbs). The deafening noise created by these bells is believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the community during the sacred Christmas season. Over the years, the weight of these bells has increased significantly, testing the physical strength and endurance of the participants. Recently, a Viflaim member wore a 95 kg (209 lbs) harness for three days and nights while continuing to dance with remarkable dedication.
In Vișeu de Jos, the Viflaim remains the centerpiece of Christmas Eve, bringing the entire community together in a powerful display of faith, tradition, and physical endurance. This celebration is more than just a custom—it’s a profound spiritual journey into the heart of a living cultural heritage.
In Maramureș, Christmas is felt not only in the voices of the carolers or the scent of freshly baked ‘cozonac’ (sweet bread) but also in every echo of the bells and every gesture of those who carry forward this legacy. Vișeu de Jos remains a special place where the magic of the holidays takes on a profound spiritual meaning, preserving the unbreakable bond between past and present.
𝘛𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘴: 𝘕𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘪 𝘋𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘴 𝘍𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘯
