Putvegen

An old folk custom in Kessenich.

The cleaning of the well on Fair Monday is unique and probably does not exist anywhere else.
The militia cleans the well at the presbytery. The Saint Martin's Well is the original baptismal font of the parish of Kessenich. Until the 13th century, baptisms took place in this pond. Later, they took place in the church. The baptismal font was located on the territory of the militia, so they felt responsible for its maintenance. Every year, this baptismal font was cleaned: the well cleaning.

Over the years, however, the old Sint-Maartensput gradually fell into disrepair. The tradition of well sweeping continued, albeit in a more symbolic form: the militia built a small cement well near the old baptismal font. Well sweeping still takes place there every year: the well is cleaned, the flag bearer waves the flag, the chairman gives a speech and the priest treats everyone to refreshments. Afterwards, the militia go to the fair or to the “Sjöttekamer” to perform one of the works of mercy: quenching the thirsty.