Much like the Christmas tree and the turkey dinner, hanging a wreath has become a festive tradition in many homes.

But where does this originate from and why do we hang wreaths on our walls and front doors at Christmas?

Origins

The Greek god of life and health, Apollo, is often depicted wearing a head wreath and because of this, the wreath became an important symbol for good health, life and even immortality in Greek culture.

Winners at the Pythian Games, which have now evolved into the Olympics, were presented with wreaths and this tradition still holds true in the modern games.

In ancient Rome, important military and government figures wore wreaths as a symbol of their power and status. Romans also introduced the idea of laying wreaths at funerals as a symbol of remembrance and the after-life.

Christianity

Christians adopted the funeral wreath from Roman culture, but it has also become a symbol of their never-ending love of Christ, which is where the association between Christmas and the wreath began.

Christmas Wreaths

Initially, Christians would hang a wreath during advent and decorate it with candles. This tradition still exists today, but most people opt to for a simpler wreath made up of evergreen leaves, twigs and decorations.

Today, the Christmas wreath is seen by many as nothing more than a decoration, despite it’s well-established religious connotations.