During Carnival, the Lötschental valley in the Valais is invaded by the «Tschäggättä», frightening characters dressed in fur and wearing grimacing masks, who sweep through the villages.
This pagan custom from the Lötschental is only permitted by the church from 3 February for the duration of Carnival.
In the past, tree roots were used for these traditional masks. Since 1975, they have been carved from solid wood blocks.
