The streets of Redange-sur-Attert will come alive Sunday as the beloved yet eerie figure of the Kropemann takes centre stage at the 11th annual festival in his honour, a cultural celebration that revisits the cautionary tale – and features performances by prominent Luxembourgers.
To keep children away from the treacherous waters of the Attert, the legend of the 'Kropemann' has thrilled generations of Luxembourg children. On Sunday, 29 September, the ominous figure will be at the centre of the famous 'Kropemannsfest' in Redange-sur-Attert.
"The Kropemann is a scary figure who lives underwater, using his hook to snatch unwary children who come too close to the banks of the Attert, but also to wells and marshes... He then drags them to the bottom of the river", summarises Danielle Simon-Arendt, president of the Kropemann festival, the cautionary tale.
A dark and threatening character, the Kropemann (i.e. the man with the hook) is pictured as a small man with a long, shaggy beard, ripped clothing, and an algae-covered body. His signature trait? He never moves without his so-called 'Kropestaang', a pole with a hook attached to the end to drag victims into the Attert's depths.
At the time of creation, the legend was originally meant to deter children from coming too close to the water, making them wary of its dangers. After all, the Attert is at its most dangerous at the height of Redange. "Back then, people underestimated its dangers, with many children drowning", adds Simon-Arendt.
However, times have changed as the legend passed down generations. The Kropemann allegedly still resides near the river, but he is now a beloved figure. "He is a friend to the children, who are no longer afraid of him."
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Commemorating the Kropemann in an annual festival
"The Kropemann used to scare children, but since the start of the annual festival, they have been excited to see him", says Monique Kuffer, who is secretary, author, and manager at the Kropemannfest association. The Kropemann's mellowing nonetheless has not put a stop to the legend. Instead, his story was revived with the creation of the festivities, a large annual celebration held on the last Sunday of September.
"It was the brainchild of all the organisations in Rwdange, alongside the local council and shops", explains Kuffer. Today, it has become a cultural and musical celebration attracting thousands of visitors – making it one of the top five festivals in the Grand Duchy.
© Maurice Fick / RTL
The festival kicks off with a comedic political satire at Worré Park at 10am, where councillors, the mayor, and prominent media and political figures take the stage. This year's artists include Agriculture Minister Martine Hansen, former Chamber President Fernand Etgen, and former Equality Minister Taina Bofferding.
The play is followed by a musical procession featuring the politicians and actors through Rédange's high street, while around 100 market stalls sell crafts and creative items. Four music stages will host various groups across the village, including De Läb, MarsApproche, RedSax, Henng-Strëpp, and Cool Feet. This year also sees special emphasis placed on the children's village, according to the organisers.
Symbol of Redange
After decades, the Kropemann has become synonymous with Rédange. "He is everywhere", says Simon-Arendt. From the pedestal of the fountain dedicated to him in front of the town hall to the large wooden sculpture in Worré Park, visitors are at all times reminded on whose domain they find themselves.
His name is also honoured in a bistro, the local newsletter, and perhaps soon, a new housing estate.
The 11th edition of the festival will take place on Sunday, 29 September, from 10am–7pm in the streets of Redange-sur-Attert. Entry is free.
