Spring comes in red and white

February 28, 2018

The Embassies of Bulgaria and Romania invite people to get to know the tradition of wearing a red and white thread named Martisor to mark the beginning of Spring, tomorrow in Nicosia.

The tradition involves making, offering and wearing a red and white thread, named Martisor in Romanian and Moldovan and Martenitsa in Bulgarian. The wearing of the Martisor on March 1 began in ancient times and up until today, the thread is thought to be a symbol that will protect the wearer and ensure a safe passage from winter to spring.

This ancient ritual has its origins in Roman practices and beliefs. The name comes from the month bearing the name of the god of war, Mars, the protector of the fields and of cattle and the god personifying nature’s rebirth after the winter.

The red, given by sun, blood and fire, is associated with women, while the white is associated with the clear colour of water and white clouds. In ancient times, white symbolised men’s wisdom. Therefore, the knitting together of the two blends two opposite principles, male and female, in a permanent position.

Martisors are still worn today on March 1, and they are still tied to trees. Children still make them to give to others and they have become a way for communities to come together and realise that they are really not so different from each other.

The event will open with a welcome speech, followed by a brief presentation of the tradition in Romania and Bulgaria, a short artistic programme and then refreshments and traditional pastries will be served.

Martenitsa
Brief presentation of the tradition in Romania and Bulgaria, followed by a short artistic programme and refreshments. March 1. Head Office of Hellenic Bank, Head Office Building, corner of Limassol and Athalassa Avenue, Nicosia. 7pm. Tel: 99-530458

Source:  Cyprus Mail