Antlass eggs

Antlass eggs are the eggs laid by the hens on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday. An Antlass egg is considered to be a protection and blessing for home and family. Even today, an Antlass egg is often built into the wall of a house when a new house or stable is built. According to ancient traditions, an Antlass egg had very special powers:

• If stored in the attic, it should protect against lightning strikes.
• Burying it in the field should ensure a good harvest.
• Hanging it in the stable was supposed to protect against evil witches.
• Eating an Antarse egg should protect against illness.

The word “cause” means dismissal, indulgence or absolution. Until the late Middle Ages, public church penitents were released from penance on Maundy Thursday after the 40-day fast and were allowed to attend church services again.