March 1st….Mărțișor, Harbinger of Romanian Spring

Ghiocei

As Romanians prepare for spring celebrations on March 1^st, the legends of Mărțișor and Baba Dochia come to mind, memories of childhood, red and white twisted silk bows with lovely miniature works of art, some handmade others depicting various symbols of love, friendship and renewal.

Martisor

Ancient folk traditions were passed on from one generation to the next from Roman times when gold or silver coins were tied to the blossoming fruit trees or some shrubs such as sweet briar, the tradition called for sharing of red wine, freshly baked bread and fresh cheese with the friends and family.

Spring Tradition

Burduf Cheese in Pine Bark

In other places, Mărțișor was worn until the arrival of migratory birds when it was thrown in the direction from which they came for future good fortune.

 

Bread Makers

Baba Dochia in Bucovina is the fairytale about a young princes that runs to the hills disguised as a shepherdess in order to avoid being given in marriage to a tyrant ruler.

She dressed warmly with nine sheepskin traditional embroidered coats to stay warm near her sheep. 

Cojoc Hand Embroidered

As she climbed the hills on March 1st, she took off one coat at the time for nine days, only to get to the top of the mountain where it was so cold and the ruler’s men were catching up to her. 

 

Banat Cojoc Vest

In her desperation she fell to her knees and asked God to save her…the wish was granted…she was turned into a beautiful rock formation for eternity.

Babele

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White Guba Coats

Moldova Vests and Jacket

Master Cojoc Maker

The craft of cojoc making is still transcending from centuries of traditions and regional artistry.

Dragobete....Love Romanian Style

 

Dragobete Saliste, Sibiu

On February 24 everybody in Romania loves…. sweet Romanian style, in the purest and most intense way.

It is the day of spring when nature comes back to life, birds sprinkle joy with their song, spring flowers delight our senses, tradition transcending from Dacian times.

Dacian Gold Cup

It is similar to Valentine's Day,  Dragobete is the name of the handsome and strong young man that brings love in the home and heart.

Legends from ancient times depict him as a mythological character, like Eros, the ancient Greek god of love and Cupid from the Romans, who officiated from the heavens weddings for all animals at the beginning of each spring, a tradition that continues in the folklore.

 

Basil

On this day, basil is sown… seeds are placed in the soil, in small pottery vessels, nurtured in window sills in light and warmth until the day of Saint George, on April 23 at which time the basil is planted out into the garden. 

It is believed that the basil will poses special magic and healing qualities.

Should you chose to celebrate, indulge with a cherished Romanian Champagne.

Panciu Romanian Champagne

Special Champagne Crystal Glass Presentation fit for royalty with exquisite detailed packaging.

Subtle, with great tradition of production, splendor in presentation and tasting delicacy. 

 

A crystal bottle plated with gold and silver will deliver the luxurious Panciu champagne.

Chocolate Raspberry Pavlova

Luscious Deserts

  

Walnut Sour Cherry Chocolate Tort

Profiteroles

Choux à la Crème  

Dobos Torte

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Certainly one way to commemorate an unforgettable  celebration...Enjoy!