History
of Wreaths
The
use of wreaths goes back a long time to ancient cultures such as Persia,
Rome and Greece.
Originally, the circlet or diadem was a fabric headband which was sometimes
adorned with jewels. A wreath was called a diadem, from the Greek word diadema
which means “a thing bound around.” Diadems symbolized royalty.
Around
776 B.C., wreaths made of laurel or olive leaves were used to crown winners of
Olympic Games as prizes. The olive branch became the symbol for peace
because the Games were not held during war periods. Later when the Games
moved to different cities, each host city would award head garlands made of
branches from local trees.
At
first the Romans shunned the idea of wearing diadems. However they retained
a fascination with the idea and soon the upper classes were wearing garlands of
oak, laurel and olive leaves. The head wreaths soon became symbols of
military astuteness and athletic ability. When Julius Caesar was crowned,
it was with a wreath of fresh laurel.
Other
countries soon took notice of the diadems and designed head wreaths of their
own utilizing metals and precious jewels. Eventually crowns were
created for royalty. The word “crown” is derived from the Latin word
“corona”, which means garland or wreath.
Exactly
when the transition from head ornament to wall decoration occurred is unknown.
Most likely celebration attendees simply hung the leafy headbands on their
walls as souvenirs which became wall decorations.
Today’s wreaths are used as holiday adornments, as attractive
welcoming decorations for our front doors or as center pieces for
our tables. Beautifully decorated wreaths are not only an important
symbol of the December holidays, but they’re popular throughout the year as decoration
for each season.
Modern Symbolism of the Wreath
Circular Design:
Everlasting life; circle of family; unending love
On the Door:
Welcome
Evergreen:
Eternal life
