Cultural Events and Customs in Romania » MARTISOR

The 'Martisor' represents a tradition that goes back quite far away.

From olden times, this little ‘amulet’ was made of two entwined pieces of lace, coloured white and red.

They represent the days, the weeks and months of the year all bound together. They are offered as a good omen on the very days that used to mark the beginning of the New Year for the Romans.

The women especially used to tie it to the necks or hands of their loved ones. That is why it was especially popular with children and young people, but to this day, the date of March 1 marks the beginning of several days when little 'March gifts' or 'Martisoare' are exchanged with a frenzy that is paralleled only by the impetuous coming of Spring.



After they wore them, people used to tie them to the blossoming branches of trees around their homes. They were sure they were going to be all healthy, as beautiful as flowers, pleasant and loving, rich and lucky, protected from illnesses and the evil eye.

May this spring bring the same to you and may you come to Romania, where you can discover this and many other fascinating traditions along Cultural Travel & Tours!