The goat-headed, troll-like monsters come out at night and roam Christmas
markets and villages are part of southern German tradition during the holidays. 

The troll-like Perchten or Krampus emerge when it gets dark. The gnarled and
gruesome figures stomp through the Christmas markets of Bavaria, scaring
children and sometimes even give women a spanking.

The hairy creatures with goat heads and horns are part of German Christmas
tradition and come out the night before St Nicholas on Dec. 5.

With a stick and metal chains, the Krampus are out to do St. Nick's dirty work:
terrifying naughty children.

Today's Perchten wear eleborate masks that can weigh up to 25 kg.

According to tradition, these horned creatures come out mainly during Christmas
to drive away winter with loud noises.

The name of the Krampus goes back to the old German word for claw "Krampen".

The custom of the Krampus orginates from the time before the Inquisition, when
dressing up as a devil-like creature was punished with death.

Today, the gruesome fellows have a place as St. Nicholas' dark alter ego.

Viewed by light the Perchten don't look all that scary, but some people still think
their appearances may scar little children for life.

Though costumes vary, the Krampus usually have long horns, cloven hoofs, and
long hair.