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The tradition of giving roses on Sant Jordi
Once March is over, April comes packed with events and festivities that have been traditions for centuries. In Spain, we are very fortunate to be a land rich in tradition and festivals of the widest variety.
Many festivals are celebrated in April, but if there is one marked day associated with a lovely tradition, it is Sant Jordi Day. We tell you everything about this celebration and its tradition of giving roses, and how, through www.interflora.es, you can find the best alternatives to continue giving culture and tradition.
How this celebration began
In Catalonia, everyone looks forward to 23 April, Sant Jordi Day. It is a much-anticipated day when every street is adorned with flowers to celebrate one of the most beautiful and deeply rooted traditions of this part of the Mediterranean coast. But how did this tradition begin? We will tell you.
Sant Jordi celebrates culture, the area's identity and spring. The origin of this festival is centred on the town of Montblanc. According to legend, there was a dragon that terrified the inhabitants. On one occasion, that dragon was about to devour a princess when a knight named Jordi appeared, drove his lance into the dragon, and from the blood that flowed a beautiful rose bush grew. As a result, knights began giving roses to their beloveds.
What giving roses symbolises
Although the tradition has evolved, today everyone gives roses on Saint George's Day. Yet the act remains laden with symbolism because, on the one hand, it symbolises passion and the colour of the dragon's blood; on the other, the rose is accompanied by a wheat ear signifying fertility and the senyera, the ribbon in the colours of the Catalan flag that enhances this regional celebration.
Beyond what history shows us, giving roses and a book for Sant Jordi has become a tradition that has a positive economic effect on the area. On the one hand, all florists take to the streets to sell their product, bookshops are decorated, and many associations raise funds by selling tradition and culture.
The best thing about this day is that, even as the years pass and new technologies enter fully into our homes or our way of working, such a special date arrives and tradition continues to prevail. It is, among other things, a celebration full of affection and the warmth of sharing.
Ultimately, it is a perfect day to stroll, give fresh flowers and enjoy the gift of a good read. Culture passed from generation to generation that is undoubtedly the finest legacy we can leave. Choose the best people to give flowers and celebrate beauty, courage and hope. Because flowers are also born from wounds and help us brighten our days.