Martisor by Doriutz

Photography • Still Life • posted on Mar 01, 2008

Open full image in new tab Zoom on image

Hover over top left image to zoom.
Click anywhere to exit.

Members remain the original copyright holder in all their materials here at Renderosity. Use of any of their material inconsistent with the terms and conditions set forth is prohibited and is considered an infringement of the copyrights of the respective holders unless specially stated otherwise.

Description

Martisor is a traditional Romanian celebration of the coming of spring. It is celebrated on the March 1st of every year. Martisor is also the name of a talisman object consisting of a small decoration tied to a white and red string, symbolizing the coming of spring. The gift is given so that the one who wears it will be healthy and powerful for the year to come. The exact origin of the Martisor is unclear, but it has been proposed that it orginated in Rome, where New Year's Eve was celebrated on the 1st of March. The celebration was a tribute to the god Mars, who signifies the rebirth of nature and agriculture, as well as a protector of war. Mars' double symbolism is preserved directly in the Martisor - white and red represent peace and war, and winter and spring.