Martisor

 

“Martisor” (translated as spring amulet) is celebrated in Romania at the beginning of spring, on the first of March.

It celebrates the beginning of spring. The name comes from the name of the month March (“martie” in Romanian and “mart” in old Romanian). We can also find this tradition in Bulgaria (Martenita). It is a very old tradition, coming from pre- Christian times.

“Martisorul” is a traditional talisman, which can represent  anything: a flower, an animal or a chimney sweeper-which brings good luck). On this talisman is attached a red and white string. Red is the colour of fire, blood, and a symbol of life, associated with women, while white is the colour of snow, clouds, and the wisdom of men. The string also represents the contrasts like spring and winter, life and death, war and peace. It protects people from evil and it makes them beautiful and healthy.

Boys give “martisoare” to girls and they wear them. All children, boys and girls give “martisoare” to their mother and teachers. Every year we make “martisoare” with our Art teacher, Diana Lazar, and we wear, give or sell them.

It is a wonderful celebration!