Immerse yourself in the ambiance of Christmas in Vienna through the festive sights, sounds, flavors, and customs. Various Christmas markets transform the city starting in the middle of November and continuing into December.
You can find delicious food, unique décor for different seasons, and arts and crafts at these markets. Goulash soup, roasted almonds, toffee apples, melting cheese, fried sausages, and perfumed candles and soaps fill the air in Vienna. A cup of Weihnachtspunsch, a hot Christmas punch, is also available to guests. The city is full of lights, and there are various things to do, including Advent concerts.
Christmas Traditions in Vienna
Some of the most popular Christmas customs in Vienna are as follows:
Christmas Markets
A Christmas market in Vienna.
The Christmas markets in Vienna attract a large number of tourists every year around this time.
You may get delicious food, unique decorations for different seasons, and arts and crafts at these markets. The Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz, Karlsplatz, Schönbrunn, Freyung, Am Hof, Maria-Theresien-Platz, Belvedere, Spittelberg, Stephansplatz, and Altes AKH are among the most important marketplaces in Vienna.
Advent Concerts
In December, Vienna comes alive with the enchanting melody of Advent concerts. Concertgoers may sample some gentle classical Viennese music at these events at Christmas.
Weihnachtspunsch (Christmas Punch)
To go with that hot cup of something toasty, I recommend Weihnachtspunsch, often known as Christmas Punch. This wintertime beverage, which is available in an array of flavors, is the perfect way to quench your thirst.
Another beautiful Austrian Christmas custom is the lighting of the Adventkranz, a wreath made of fir branches that holds four big candles. Each Sunday, the next candle is lit to mark the weeks until Christmas in Vienna.
Culinary Delights
“Culinary temptation” has become a fine art form at the usual Christmas market in Vienna. Some common sweets include fruit wrapped in chocolate, almonds that have been roasted or caramelized, lebkuchen, countless pastries, and many kinds of pretzels in this city.
Photo Opportunity at Belvedere
A little lake fronts the Baroque Upper Belvedere mansion, and the structure and its reflection take on a distinct quality in the evening. This is especially true when the sky takes on a twilight blue color and the lights come on, creating a scene out of a storybook.
The Christmas season in Stockholm, which begins on November 12, is a mash-up of traditions. An array of over a million LED lights, shaped like angels, mistletoe, and reindeer, illuminate Stockholm in a unique way. The Nordiska Kompaniet department store offers a breathtaking Christmas display each year. Stortorget (a public square) is home to a Christmas market where you can get candles, decorations, and sweets. Restaurants in Stockholm provide traditional holiday dishes such as meatballs, kale, Christmas ham, and mulled wine (“glögg”). The city also puts on concerts and stage performances to promote the holiday spirit.
Christmas Traditions in Stockholm
Christmas Markets
Stockholm is home to a number of Christmas markets, the oldest of which is at Gamla Stan. Smoked reindeer, elk, glögg (mulled wine), and other Swedish favorites are available at these markets, along with various crafts. Skansen, Drottningholm, and Kungsträgården are three more renowned marketplaces. Unique Swedish specialties and a variety of handicrafts are found in Gamla Stan’s market. The whole event is held in Stortorget Square, in the heart of Gamla Stan, Sweden.
At an astounding 125 feet in height, the Skeppsbron Tree is supposedly the biggest genuine Christmas tree on the planet. At its peak, there is a 13-foot star, and it is decorated with 5,000 lights on its branches.
Standing proudly on the Skeppsbron shoreline, this enormous Christmas tree guards the perimeter of Old Town in Stockholm, and it is inspired by the one at Rockefeller Plaza in New York.
Julbord
The traditional Swedish Christmas feast known as julbord includes meatballs, sausages, cheese, and a Christmas ham among its many courses. On every Julbord, you can’t miss the marzipan pig. This is a Scandinavian Christmas feast, and it usually runs from the end of November to around Christmastime and takes place in restaurants, hotels, and other unusual locations. Drinks like glögg (Swedish mulled wine), snaps, and julöl (a dark, sweetish beer produced for Christmas) are common parts of the ritual.
Lucia
Lucia is a well-known Swedish custom that is celebrated every year on December 13 in Stockholm. Girls and boys sing the Lucia hymn in a choir while dressed in white, with candles placed on top of their heads. They sing their songs in traditional saffron buns and drink glögg as part of the custom. They also carry candles in their hands.
The custom has its roots in the Swedish tale of Lucia as Adam’s first wife and in the life of Saint Lucy of Syracuse, a martyr who died in 304. The tradition was established in Stockholm in the 1920s.
Before modern medicine and the widespread use of antibiotics, a simple insect bite could lead to a patient’s death. In some societies, the absence of medical solutions often compelled individuals to seek the guidance of shamans, occultists, sorcerers, and/or traditional practitioners to find potential cures for minor injuries.
In Egypt, traditional healers had their own methods for treating patients.
If we know bread for its nutritional qualities and values, it also has other virtues that have been very useful in the history of ancient Egypt. According to some sources of scientific research, the Egyptians used the method of moldy bread as an antibiotic for more than 5000 years before the invention of antibiotics to treat wounds or other dermatological issues.
Moldy Bread: Penicillin to Prevent Infections
In Europe, as well as in the rest of the world, moldy bread and cheese were used as dermatological entities to treat wounds. Some sources suggest that in ancient times, hot wine, mustard seeds, and moldy bread were products used to address skin issues or injuries. Specifically, hot wine served as an alcohol substitute, mustard seeds helped alleviate pain, and moldy bread aided in preventing microbes due to its antiseptic properties containing penicillium family microbes.
Hippocrates (460–370 BC), the father of medicine, used this approach for a very long time in medieval Europe. It is through texts detailing such practices that researchers have traced the origins of this medical trend. Hippocrates attests that this method originated in ancient Egypt, as observed in certain discovered medical papyri.
Ancient Egypt Used Moldy Bread to Heal Wounds
Edwin Smith Papyrus at the Rare Book Room.
According to the JDDG (Journal of the German Society of Dermatology), the Edwin Smith Papyrus (Book of Wounds), a medical papyrus, discusses the history of early wound treatments and cites ancient Egypt as the source. In this context, they employed moldy bread as an antiseptic solution. The text mentions, “Moldy bread was used for purulent wounds and can, in a way, be regarded as the first kind of penicillin due to the antibiotic substances later found therein.”
Ancient Egypt was indeed a well-organized society with an impressively hierarchical medical structure. Both Greek and Roman accounts from those who lived in this region attest that Egyptian physicians, whether male or female, treated nearly all diseases and received their salaries from the Pharaoh.
This arrangement functioned as a kind of health insurance of that era, as the population did not bear the cost of medical care; it was the responsibility of the Pharaoh.
” It was among these Egyptian specialists that dermatologists or dermatology experts recommended the use of moldy bread for treating wounds due to its aforementioned penicillin content.
Why Is it Said That Moldy Bread Contains Penicillin?
While the bread itself does not contain penicillin, it is crucial to note that its composition reveals the presence of specific chemical components, such as yeast or sourdough. In yeast or sourdough, there is the potential presence of vitamin B, along with other vitamins and trace elements:
Thiamine
Pantothenic acid
Biotin
Folic acid
Zinc
Magnesium
Silicon
Selenium
All these elements contribute to the bread molding when exposed to air for several days. This mold develops with the assistance of bacteria and fungi, particularly those belonging to the penicillium family, which actively combat other bacteria. The Egyptians, having observed this phenomenon, recommended this practice for individuals with wounds. It is crucial to clarify that the bread itself does not secrete this mold; instead, the surrounding elements contribute to the molding process. This emphasizes the concept that ‘Nothing is lost, nothing is created, everything is transformed (Antoine Lavoisier).‘
—>The ancient use of moldy bread is considered an early example of the use of antibiotics. The discovery of penicillin by Sir Alexander Fleming in the 20th century built upon this historical knowledge, leading to the development of modern antibiotics and revolutionizing medicine.
Does Egyptian Bread Differ from Modern Bread?
The difference in the bread of the ancient Egyptians lies both in the manufacturing process and the composition of the bread. It is important to note that Egyptian bread was made with a variant of durum wheat, namely triticum urartu, or emmer wheat, and triticum turgidum, or rivet wheat. In contrast, our bread is typically made from common wheat or soft wheat known as triticum aestivum.
Furthermore, Egyptian bread was leavened without yeast, in contrast to ours, which typically contains yeast. Therefore, using our moldy bread to cover wounds is not recommended. Our bread contains numerous chemical elements that, instead of aiding in wound healing, could worsen the condition and potentially lead to more serious pathologies. Additionally, Egyptian bread was manufactured using clay pots baked on hot ashes, while our bread involves machines that, despite hygiene efforts, may harbor microbes or bacteria.
According to legend and history, the tradition of footbinding in China is said to have originated during the time of imperial China, specifically after the reign of the Tang Dynasty in the 10th century. Initially, it was limited to women from affluent social classes.
The first recorded instance of footbinding is attributed to the concubine of Emperor Xuanzong, with the emperor himself purportedly endorsing the practice. The purpose was to enhance the gracefulness of the concubine’s lotus dance, thereby increasing his desire. This tradition then spread within the emperor’s court, eventually becoming a symbol of femininity and wealth.
—>Footbinding involved tightly wrapping the feet, usually starting at a young age, to prevent natural growth. The process could be painful and involved breaking the arch of the foot and curling the toes under, resulting in the desired lotus shape.
How Did the Tradition of Footbinding Evolve in China?
While originally the tradition of footbinding was exclusive to the emperor’s court, it quickly spread to other social classes. Initially a symbol of distinction, bound feet hindered women from walking properly and, consequently, from moving around. This was an inconceivable issue for less affluent social classes, as women were obligated to work.
However, over the years, the legend of footbinding permeated throughout the country. Women adhering to this tradition believed they would secure a happy marriage and a better future. Gradually, they became destined to stay at home and cease working. Using their feet became unnecessary, and to take it a step further, the smaller their feet, the cuter they were considered.
Why Was the Chinese Tradition of Footbinding Banned?
In 1912, the tradition of footbinding was prohibited in China during the establishment of the first republic. This practice, now entirely illegal, was indeed responsible for significant pain among women.
The tradition of footbinding began at the age of 4, involving the binding of the feet to prevent further growth. Submerged in boiling water, the feet were then wrapped in cotton cloth with the toes curled and the other digits folded. The binding was tightened progressively until it reached the desired size, approximately 7.5 cm for the Golden Lotus (“three-inch golden lotus”). However, this tradition was synonymous with mutilation and inflicted pain that could extend to fatal consequences.
Why Are Chinese Women’s Footbinding Characterized as “Lotus”?
The term “lotus” is intimately connected to the aesthetics and beauty standards of the time.
Bound feet were likened to lotus buds due to their small size and rounded shape. The “golden lotus” was the highest distinction, awarded to feet measuring less than 7.5 cm (3 inch). This lotus imagery was also associated with the symbolism of purity and eroticism, reinforcing male desire. Lotus shoes, specially designed for footbinding, heightened this image of delicacy and refinement.
Do Wealthy Chinese Women Today Continue This Tradition?
Feet of a Chinese woman, showing the effect of footbinding. Image: Welcome Collection, CC BY 4.0.
Today, the practice of footbinding has almost disappeared in China. It is important to note that this practice is now illegal and is considered a form of mutilation. Wealthy Chinese women, as well as those from other social classes, no longer adhere to such traditional practices.
In the 21st century, Chinese society has embraced new standards of beauty and mobility for women. Thus, even though footbinding was once an integral part of Chinese cultural identity, this tradition is no longer practiced and has become a relic of the past.
That being said, the history of footbinding remains a subject of fascination and research for many historians and sociologists. Exhibitions and documentaries continue to study and document this unique practice, shedding light on the customs and values of ancient China.
—>The practice of footbinding began to decline in the early 20th century, particularly with efforts during the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China. Anti-footbinding campaigns, social changes, and increased awareness of the physical toll contributed to its decline.
Why Were Small Feet a Symbol of Beauty for Chinese Women in the Past?
A lotus shoe for bound feet, Louise Weiss collection, Saverne.
In ancient Chinese society, the aesthetics of footbinding, despite the suffering they caused, were associated with notions of femininity, wealth, and distinction. The idea that a bound and thus deformed foot could be perceived as beautiful may seem surprising, but its appreciation is a cultural conception linked to specific values and ideals.
Femininity: Small feet were seen as a sign of delicacy and femininity, reinforcing the traditional image of a gentle and fragile woman.
Wealth: The practice of footbinding was costly and involved constant care, meaning that only affluent families could afford it. Thus, small feet became an indicator of high social status.
Distinction: Additionally, the skill required to bind and maintain feet in an “aesthetic” state was considered a form of art, adding a certain distinction to those who mastered this practice.
In summary, these values associated with bound feet, combined with the legend of Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine, contributed to making this practice an ideal of beauty in ancient China.
The enchanted Christmas season in Rome starts on December 8 and continues all the way through January 6. Christmas trees, ornate Nativity scenes, and bustling marketplaces light up the metropolis. Colorful are historical sites, piazzas, and cathedrals in the Baroque style.
Piazza Navona and The Auditorium are two examples of festive marketplaces where you can get a wide selection of sweets, presents, and hot mulled wine made in the area. Extended store hours for Christmas shopping keep Rome bustling with activity, despite the cool weather and occasional rain. Come prepared to soak up the festive spirit in Rome if you’re planning a Christmas vacation around this period.
Roman Christmas customs combine religious observances with secular celebrations, drawing on the city’s history of Catholicism. That’s why Rome has many interesting Christmas traditions:
Extended Celebrations
The Roman Christmas season begins on December 25 and continues all the way to the Epiphany on January 6. This indicates that Christmas customs endure for a longer period of time compared to other cities and countries, such as France or England.
It is a long-standing custom in Rome to abstain from meat on Christmas Eve. On Christmas Eve, however, spaghetti is the traditional dinner in Italy. The exact pasta meals vary from one area to another. The northern regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, for instance, are known for their anchovy lasagna, while the southern region of Naples is known for its vermicelli with mussels or clams.
Midnight Service at the Vatican
Many Romans and visitors to Rome make it a point to attend the Christmas Eve service at the Vatican. There will be no charge to attend this, and it will take place at 9:30 PM instead of midnight. Additionally, St. Peter’s Square airs it on television.
During the Christmas season, Rome comes alive with a plethora of markets selling everything from handmade candies and beautiful glass decorations to the traditional Italian panettone and other sweets.
A Gastronomic Tour of Christmas Food
Traditional Christmas fare in Rome differs substantially from one area of the city to another, as you will see on this gastronomic tour. Pastries like panettone and pandoro are common during Italian Christmas celebrations. Both are sweet bread varieties, but that’s where they vary most.
Places to Celebrate Christmas in Rome
With its festive events and sights, Rome is the place to spend Christmas. Some of the most well-known spots are:
Christmas Markets: The Christmas market at Piazza Navona is one of several in Rome, and it is known for its ambiance and decorations. At these markets, guests discover handcrafted goods, delicacies, and presents.
Nativity Scenes: Throughout Rome, you may see nativity scenes presented in houses, public places, and churches. The birth of Jesus, the landscape, and other figures from the Christmas tale are shown in these scenes using handmade miniatures.
Christmas Concerts: Enjoy the Christmas performances in Rome, such as the “Opera Christmas Concerts” in St. Andrew’s Church of Scotland on Via Venti Settembre, the “Baroque Christmas Concert” at the Capuchin Crypt on Via Vittorio Veneto, and the “Love Cello Duet” at Piazza Navona. Participating in these musical activities is a way to get into the spirit.
Traditional Christmas Food: Pasta, pork, seafood, and sweets like pangiallo (a Roman Christmas cake) and the Italian panettone are the Christmas delicacies that you may get in Rome. During Christmas, several popular Roman restaurants provide special menus.
Christmas Trees: Rome has two prominent Christmas trees—one in Piazza Venezia and one in St. Peter’s Square—even though Christmas trees aren’t associated with Italian festive customs. The city is still much more festive with these trees.
Traditional Christmas Foods in Rome
Panettone vero, Italian Christmas cake.
A range of meals are traditionally served around Christmas in Rome. Black coffee and digestive liquor are required at the conclusion of a Roman holiday meal.
Christmas Eve Dinner
For Christmas Eve dinner, the typical fish and fries dish is fried codfish (baccala), although other favorites include linguine pasta with tuna or anchovies, fritto misto alla romana with zucchini, artichokes, broccoli, and other vegetables. A chicory salad, fried broccoli, potatoes, and roasted pike or eel are other ingredients.
Christmas Day Lunch
Soups like tortellini or stracciatella, or even a thistle and egg broth, are the traditional starters for Christmas Day lunch in Rome. Roast lamb with potatoes comes next, after which there’s a traditional pasta meal like cannelloni or lasagna. ‘Misticanza,’ artichokes, and puntarelle salad are common side dishes.
Roman Desserts
Fresh or dried fruits, pangiallo, and torrone are required dessert ingredients. Rome is home to the traditional pangiallo, a dish made of dried fruit, honey, candied peel, and egg batter that lends it a bright yellow color (thus the name “giallo”). Desserts such as Verona’s Pandoro—lighter, sweeter, and sprinkled with sugar—and Panettone—rich with candied fruit and raisins—are also popular.
The History of Christmas in Rome
Roman Christmas customs are rooted in the city’s religious past. Saturnalia, the pagan Roman celebration of the winter solstice, is where Christmas traditions first emerged. Celebrated on or around December 25th, Saturnalia was a public event with generous giving, feasting, and the decorating of trees. The event saw a reversal of social norms, with the rich being obliged to cover the rent for the poor for a month and slaves and masters exchanging clothing.
Poet Gaius Valerius Catullus in the first century AD characterized Saturnalia as “the best of times,” when people gave token gifts like candles, toys, and caged birds. The original Saturnalia celebration was a farmer’s farewell to the fall planting season.
Saturnalia became longer and later throughout the Roman era as the festival progressed. The culmination of Saturnalia is now celebrated on December 25th, close to the winter solstice, according to revisions made to the Roman calendar.
The modern Christmas celebrations made their way to the eastern Mediterranean from Rome. The Roman Philocalian calendar from 354 AD is the first documented source that mentions honoring the birth of Christ on December 25th. The first Christian Roman emperor, Constantine the Great, instituted Christmas as a permanent holiday on December 25th, 325 AD.
Under the rule of Emperor Constantine, the Roman Catholic Church officially instituted Christmas celebrations on December 25th, 336. Some have hypothesized that Constantine’s political goal in selecting this date was to undermine the long-established pagan festivities, given that he had already declared Christianity the official religion of the empire.
Giving and receiving presents, as well as eating, were key parts of the Roman Christmas celebration as it transitioned from a pagan celebration to a Christian one. It has evolved into a phenomenon in both culture and commerce, as well as a religious festival.
The holiday season in Barcelona is full of life and celebration. From the end of November until the beginning of January, the city is decorated with lights and ornaments.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, nativity scene construction, and the distinctive Catalan traditions of “Caga Tió” and “Caganer” are part of the festivities in Barcelona. Guests may have a fun shopping experience at Fira de Santa Llúcia, the primary Christmas market in the city.
A big Christmas dinner with all the typical fixings is enjoyed by all the family on Christmas Day. After the Three Kings Parade, the Christmas season comes to a close.
Here are some of the Christmas customs in Barcelona and it is because of these customs that Christmas is so unique in this city.
Christmas Lights
The city is dazzlingly lit up with lights and decorations from the end of November until the beginning of January. Renowned Spanish architects and designers have left their imprint on Barcelona’s principal roads and structures.
On December 22, participants in the Spanish Christmas Lottery, affectionately called “el gordo” or “the fat one” in the local dialect, purchased their tickets after waiting in a long line of people. Prizes in this state-run lottery reach millions of euros, making it the biggest of its kind in the world.
Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve
Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve, is the most magical night of the year in Barcelona, and hotels and restaurants prepare special meals to mark the occasion. Soups, roasts, fish, or stuffed turkey are common main courses after a variety of appetizers, including Ibérico ham, shellfish, and tasty cheeses.
On December 25, the Barcelonians gather with their families once again to celebrate Christmas Day, also known as Navidad, and a big feast of roast lamb is served.
Caga Tió
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is also when Caga Tió is released. A little log adorned with the iconic red Catalan hat, the Barretina, wears a mischievous grin on its face. Caga Tió simply means “Poo Log.” Youngsters take daily care of the Caga Tió between December 8th and Christmas Eve. Every night before bed, they give him Turron and wrap him in a blanket to keep him warm.
Nochevieja, or New Year’s Eve
Nochevieja, or New Year’s Eve, is a time when masses of people gather outside to ring in the new year as one.
Three Kings Parade
On January 5, Barcelona plays home to the Three Kings Parade, also known as the Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos, a magnificent spectacle that pays tribute to the biblical Three Wise Men.
Festive Delights
The typical Spanish Christmas candy, turrón, gleams in the supermarket aisles, encased in glossy golden wrappers.
Christmas Markets
El Mercado de Navidad, a massive Christmas market in Barcelona, occupies the city’s biggest plaza, Plaza Mayor, every year.
Belén, Nativity Scenes
There is a strong Catholic culture in Barcelona, and as a result, nativity scenes, or belén, are quite popular there.
During Christmastime, London becomes a jolly place, making for an enchanting Christmas experience. Across the city, ice skating rinks spring up, and the streets are lit up with Christmas lights. You may find great cuisine and a wide selection of one-of-a-kind products at traditional Christmas markets. Historic landmarks like the Tower Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe host festive events, while London’s theaters host unforgettable performances and pantomimes. At Christmastime, London has something for everyone, from Hyde Park’s magical Winter Wonderland to Kew Gardens’ breathtaking displays.
Traditional Christmas celebrations in London have a long history, and the city’s distinctive traditions provide a personal touch to Christmas. The holiday season in London is indeed a lovely time, filled with old traditions, generous giving, and festivities.
Trafalgar Square’s Holiday Light Display
London at Christmas. Trafalgar Square.
Since 1947, Trafalgar Square has seen the annual erection of a massive Christmas tree which is an iconic part of London. It is a token of gratitude from the people of Oslo to the British government for all the support Norway received from the UK during World War II.
The tree is a Norwegian spruce over 65 feet high and it is carefully selected from the forests surrounding Oslo several months, even years, in advance. The lighting ceremony which takes place in early December marks the countdown to Christmas and brings festive cheer to the city. The tree remains in Trafalgar Square until just before the Twelfth Night of Christmas, when it is taken down for recycling.
Christmas Markets
You may find seasonal food, beverages, and shopping options at one of London’s many Christmas markets, including the ones at Hyde Park, South Bank, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Spitalfields. Most of the markets offer handmade crafts, cool gifts, and tempting snacks and stay open until January 7.
Covent Garden Market Christmas, London. (Simeon87, cc by sa 4.0)
Music Performances and Carol Services
When it comes to Christmas music, London is unrivaled. Before Christmas, you may find carol services throughout lunchtimes and nights at London’s churches. The Christmas music schedule at St. Martin-in-the-Fields is jam-packed, with tickets selling out months in advance. Although the majority of the Christmas carols that are familiar to us today originated in the 18th and 19th centuries, the practice of singing them in England and London may be traced back to the Middle Ages.
Christmas Trees
Prince Albert, the German spouse of Queen Victoria, introduced the custom of decorating a Christmas tree to England during the Victorian period, thereby beginning the tradition’s long history. Today, you can see Christmas trees all throughout London. One of the many places that gets a Norwegian spruce every year is also Trafalgar Square.
Crisis, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending homelessness, was founded in December 1967. Since its opening in 1972, Christmas shelters in London have provided homeless individuals with refuge, food, and services including dental treatment and healthcare over the Christmas season.
Holiday Light Shows
The first thing Londoners love to do when the holiday season begins is to switch on the Christmas lights. London is known for its stunning holiday light shows during Christmas. The finest Christmas lights in London may be seen on Oxford Street, Bond Street, Carnaby Street, or Covent Garden; local celebrities regularly switch on the lights.
The nickname “Roi-Soleil” (Sun King) for Louis XIV is the outcome of a meticulous construction of his image by the king himself, his court, and his advisors. It is closely tied to the image that Louis XIV sought to project of himself and the French monarchy.
Deliberately choosing the sun as the symbol of his reign, he positioned himself at the center of the French court and politics, akin to the sun at the center of our solar system. The sun, being the source of light and warmth, was perceived as a symbol of power, regeneration, and vitality.
The Sun King Nickname Inspired by the God Apollo
Louis XIV chose the sun, drawing inspiration from the symbol of the Greek god Apollo. Apollo was regarded as the god of poetry, music, light, and knowledge, and the monarch aimed to embody these qualities in his reign. In fact, Louis XIV’s iconography often depicts him with the attributes of Apollo, including a laurel crown, a lyre, and sun rays. This association reinforced the idea of the king as a divine and enlightened figure.
Louis XIV heightened this solar image through symbolic acts, such as his daily morning rise, where he presented himself to the court to be admired, and the construction of the Palace of Versailles, featuring the Hall of Mirrors that reflected light like the sun. The king sought to establish and consolidate his absolute authority by weaving an almost divine connection between himself and the sun.
The Sun King’s Royal Propaganda
Louis XIV.
Royal propaganda played a crucial role in disseminating the moniker of the Sun King during his reign. Louis XIV had a dedicated team to promote his image and legend. Artists, writers, and playwrights contributed to crafting this solar image of the king through artistic works, plays, poems, and grand ceremonies.
As a central element of royal propaganda, the Sun King moniker aided in constructing a powerful and majestic image of the monarch, not only within France but also abroad. Moreover, this nickname continues to symbolize the grandeur and magnificence of his reign, with Louis XIV remaining one of the most iconic monarchs in the history of France.
What Was the Sun King’s Motto?
The Sun King, Louis XIV’s motto, “Nec pluribus impar,” translates from Latin to “Not unequal to many.” Personally chosen by the king, this motto underscores his superiority and unparalleled reign. It can also be interpreted as “He is superior to all.”
Reflecting the ideology of Louis XIV’s reign, this Latin expression encapsulates his desire to be regarded as the greatest of kings, the foremost among men, perhaps even transcending mere humanity.
It serves as a declaration of absolutism and grandeur, aligning seamlessly with the carefully crafted image of the Sun King. It is worth noting that the precise meaning of this motto remains a subject of interpretation among scholars. Nevertheless, it undeniably captures Louis XIV’s ambition and self-assurance.
What Were the Other Nicknames Attributed to Louis XIV?
Apart from the famous nickname “Roi-Soleil” (Sun King), Louis XIV was also called Louis le Grand (Louis the Great) or Louis Dieudonné.
Louis le Grand: This nickname highlights the greatness of his reign, the extent of the reforms undertaken, and the magnificence of his court.
Louis Dieudonné: This nickname was given to Louis XIV at his birth, signifying that the king was a gift from God.
The various nicknames, including the title of Sun King, explain how Louis XIV skillfully created a powerful and symbolic image of his monarchy and thus played an important role in shaping the history of France.
The Wars of the Roses is an English civil war that unfolded over thirty years, from 1455 to 1485. Two cousin royal houses, the House of York and the House of Lancaster, engaged in a fratricidal power struggle to claim the English crown and rule the country.
The conflict commenced in 1455 during the reign of King Henry VI, who was captured at St. Albans on May 22 by his cousin, Richard of York. It concluded in 1485 with the coronation of Henry VII, who was affiliated with the Lancastrians. This marked the advent of a new dynasty: the Tudors, reigning over a finally pacified England.
In many respects, the Wars of the Roses allowed England and its populace to lay the groundwork for a more pacifistic future, although the Tudor dynasty and later the Stuart dynasty would also bring about conflicts. Through this fratricidal war between two houses, both stemming from the same lineage, all of England, not just its nobility, renewed its allegiance to a legitimate and unifying king, a federative and protective ruler.
—>The Wars of the Roses were named after the heraldic symbols of the two main houses involved: the red rose for the House of Lancaster and the white rose for the House of York.
What Caused the Wars of the Roses?
Henry VI of England.
The Wars of the Roses found its foundation in the aftermath of the Hundred Years’ War in England. The English resent being expelled from Aquitaine and losing most of their continental territories (except Calais). The Hundred Years’ War concluded in 1453, leaving a lingering bitterness among the English.
Additionally, the reigning monarch of England at that time, Henry VI of the House of Lancaster, displayed clear signs of madness, prompting his cousin, Richard of York, to assume regency when the king was incapable of ruling.
Queen Margaret of Anjou views this delegation of power unfavorably and seeks to sideline Richard of York. Her ambition is to gain more power and ultimately secure the throne for her young son as the future king of England. A simmering civil war unfolds between the houses of York and Lancaster, setting the stage for a tumultuous succession to the English crown.
—>Key battles included the Battle of Towton (1461), Battle of Bosworth (1485), Battle of Barnet (1471), and Battle of Tewkesbury (1471), among others.
How Did the Wars of the Roses Unfold?
The White Rose of the House of York. Image: Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 3.0.The Red Rose of the House of Lancaster. Image: Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 3.0.
This war, primarily involving the nobility, resulted in relatively few civilian casualties. Initially, King Henry VI of the Lancastrian royal house and his wife, Queen Margaret of Anjou, faced opposition from Richard of York, who allied with Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick (known as the Kingmaker). Both Henry and Richard were descendants of King Edward III.
However, on May 22, 1455, the York faction trapped the king, leading to his capture at St Albans. Eventually, Queen Margaret came to her husband’s rescue, securing his release in 1460. During the Battle of Wakefield, Richard of York lost his life.
The second phase of the civil war witnessed the conflict between Edward, son of Richard of York, and King Henry VI. On March 29, 1461, at the Battle of Towton, Henry VI was defeated. He sought refuge in Scotland, allowing Edward of York to be crowned as Edward IV. In 1465, the former king was discovered and imprisoned again in London. Although the House of York seemed victorious, Edward IV was compelled to govern under the guardianship of the Earl of Warwick. The two fell out, leading to a resolution on the battlefield.
Richard of York.
Warwick, defeated, fled to France, where, through the efforts of Louis XI, he reconciled with the former Queen Margaret of Anjou with the aim of overthrowing Edward IV. They succeeded on October 3, 1470, and Henry VI briefly reclaimed his throne. In April 1471, Edward IV made a triumphant return to London, killing the Earl of Warwick in battle, along with the only son of Henry VI. The latter also perished in prison shortly thereafter, and the House of Lancaster was nearly extinguished.
Edward IV appeared to be the ultimate victor in this war but died prematurely at the age of 41. When his young son ascended the throne as Edward V, he was under the guardianship of his uncle Richard (brother of Edward IV). Richard did not hesitate to have his nephews assassinated to seize the throne, becoming Richard III.
His confrontation with Henry Tudor at the Battle of Bosworth definitively concluded this civil war. Henry VII became the first king of the Tudor dynasty and the unifier of the Houses of York and Lancaster, notably through his marriage to Elizabeth of York, daughter of Edward IV. The fratricidal conflict between the two royal houses marked the end of the Plantagenet dynasty.
Who Were the Two Families in the Wars of the Roses?
Henry VII of England.
The two families of the Wars of the Roses originate from the same royal lineage, the Plantagenets, which produced numerous kings, dukes, and counts across Europe. The “Two Roses” are simply the emblems of the two families: the white rose for the House of York and the red rose for the House of Lancaster. Henry Tudor is connected to Lancaster through his mother, Margaret Beaufort, a descendant of John of Gaunt and therefore of Edward III Plantagenet. Here are the kings who succeeded each other during the Wars of the Roses:
Henry VI of Lancaster (1421–1471) was the King of England from 1422 to 1461.
Edward IV of York (1442–1483) was the King of England from 1461 to 1470.
Henry VI of Lancaster (1421–1471) reclaimed the throne and was again King of England from 1470 to 1471.
Edward IV of York (1442–1483) reclaimed the throne and was again King of England from 1471 to 1483.
Edward V of York (1470–1483) was the King of England for two months in 1483.
Richard III of York (1452-185) was the King of England from 1483 to 1485.
Henry VII Tudor (1457–1509), affiliated with the Lancasters, was the King of England from 1485 to 1509.
Who Won the Wars of the Roses?
Richard III.
At the conclusion of intermittent clashes throughout the 15th century between the House of York and the House of Lancaster, it would ultimately be the Lancastrian dynasty that would bring an end to the Wars of the Roses. Following a decisive battle on August 22, 1485, Richard III, who had compelled Parliament to proclaim him the King of England, was defeated by Henry VII at the Battle of Bosworth.
Richard, an unpopular sovereign who faced discontent and disapproval from the people during his reign, met his demise in this battle.
Henry VII ascended to the throne of England, assuming the name Henry VII Tudor. By marrying Elizabeth of York, a daughter of Edward IV from the House of York, Henry VII resolved the civil war between the two royal dynasties, thereby reconciling the two lineages. The Tudor dynasty would rule over England until 1603. The outcome was nearly unexpected but providential after thirty years of conflict.
While the House of York initially gained the upper hand in this war with the coronation of Edward IV, it was ultimately the House of Lancaster that brought an end to the conflict.
What Were the Consequences of the Wars of the Roses?
The primary consequence of the Wars of the Roses, which concluded in 1485, was the end of the Plantagenet dynasty that had ruled since the mid-12th century. It was succeeded by the Tudor dynasty, with its inaugural figure, Henry VII, bringing peace to the kingdom but also steering power towards a widely criticized absolutism.
The Tudor dynasty ruled over England until 1603. Its last representative, Elizabeth I, died without an heir, resulting in the decline of the Tudor family. James Stuart, the King of Scotland, then ascended to the English throne, foreshadowing the ascent of the Stuart dynasty.
From a broader perspective, the end of the Wars of the Roses also signifies the conclusion of the Middle Ages in England and the dawn of the Renaissance. Originating in Italy in the late 14th century, this movement spread across Europe but took its time to establish itself in England. The ideas of the Renaissance truly found traction and fruition only many years later, during the reign of Elizabeth I (1558–1603).
Ironically, the rose, once a symbol of war and violence during the Wars of the Roses, is eventually reclaimed positively as the symbol of England. The Tudor Rose remains the traditional emblem of England, symbolizing the transition to an era of peace and modernity after decades of conflict.
What Books and Films Are Available on the Wars of the Roses?
“The Wars of the Roses” by Alison Weir.
Books:
“The Wars of the Roses” by Alison Weir – A comprehensive and well-researched overview of the entire conflict, providing insight into the key players and events.
“The White Queen” by Philippa Gregory – This novel, part of Gregory’s Cousins’ War series, focuses on the perspective of Elizabeth Woodville during the Wars of the Roses.
“The Sunne in Splendour” by Sharon Kay Penman – A historical novel that follows the life of Richard III, providing a detailed and sympathetic portrayal of the controversial king.
“The Wars of the Roses: The Fall of the Plantagenets and the Rise of the Tudors” by Dan Jones – Jones offers a compelling narrative of the Wars of the Roses, exploring the political and social factors that led to the conflict.
—>In a more contemporary context, the American series Game of Thrones (2011-2019) incorporates certain events from the Wars of the Roses into a dark and fantastical universe.
Films/TV Series:
“The White Queen” (TV Series) – Based on Philippa Gregory’s novels, this series dramatizes the events of the Wars of the Roses from the perspective of the women involved.
“Richard III” (1995) – A film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play, starring Ian McKellen as Richard III. While a fictionalized account, it captures the essence of the era.
“The Hollow Crown” (TV Series) – This BBC series adapts Shakespeare’s history plays, including those covering the Wars of the Roses. Benedict Cumberbatch plays Richard III.
“A Man for All Seasons” (1966) – While not directly about the Wars of the Roses, this film provides context for the Tudor period, depicting the events surrounding Sir Thomas More and King Henry VIII.
Key Dates: Wars of the Roses
Plucking the Red and White Roses in the Old Temple Gardens.
December 6, 1421: Birth of Henry VI of England
From the union of Henry V and Catherine of Valois, Henry VI (assassinated in London in 1471), the future king of England, was born at Windsor Castle. He quickly ascended to the throne, starting in 1422 after the death of his father, a reign initially under the guardianship of his uncles, Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, and John of Lancaster, Duke of Bedford (for France, until his coronation in 1431). Following the Wars of the Roses, Edward IV deposed him in 1461.
October 16, 1430: Birth of James II of Scotland
James II of Scotland was born at Holyrood from the union of James I and Joan Beaufort, daughter of the Earl of Somerset. Succeeding his father at the age of seven on February 21, 1437, he struggled to subdue the Scottish nobility, which took advantage of the regency period to emancipate itself from the crown. Exploiting the Wars of the Roses (1455-87) to break free from English influence, he died on August 3, 1460, during the siege of Roxburgh.
April 28, 1442: Birth of Edward IV, King of England
Edward IV, the future King of England (1461–1470 and 1470–1483), was born in Rouen. Son of Richard of York and head of the House of York, he fought in the fratricidal Wars of the Roses against Henry VI of Lancaster, whom he succeeded in deposing in 1461. He allied with Charles the Bold, the powerful Duke of Burgundy, against Louis XI, but the latter convinced him to withdraw (Peace of Picquigny, 1475). Upon his sudden death at Westminster on April 9, 1483, his son, Edward V, succeeded him.
October 2, 1452: Birth of the Future King of England, Richard III
Richard III, the future king of England, was born on October 2, 1452. Brother of King Edward IV, Richard III of England reigned over the British kingdom from 1483 to 1485, when he lost his life in the Battle of Bosworth, putting an end to the Wars of the Roses. The writer William Shakespeare later dedicated a play to him.
May 22, 1455: The Wars of the Roses
Duke Richard of York defeated the army of King Henry VI at St Albans, northwest of London. This first battle marks the beginning of the Wars of the Roses, a civil war between the House of Lancaster, symbolized by the red rose, and the House of York, which bears a white rose, for the possession of the English crown. This civil war decimated the English aristocracy and weakened the kingdom. In 1485, King Henry VII succeeded in reconciling the two Roses.
September 23, 1459: Battle of Blore Heath
The Battle of Blore Heath, the first significant confrontation in the Wars of the Roses, took place on September 23, 1459, in England. The battle pits the Houses of Lancaster and York against each other, with the latter winning the victory after a fight that claimed about 3,000 lives, even though their troops were initially half the size of the Lancastrian forces. The Wars of the Roses between the two Houses continued until 1487.
October 12, 1459: Battle of Ludford Bridge
On October 12, 1459, the Battle of Ludford Bridge took place in England. This battle is an episode of the Wars of the Roses between the House of Lancaster and the House of York, a conflict that began in 1455 and lasted until 1487. The Battle of Ludford Bridge saw the victory of the House of Lancaster. However, the House of York would soon take revenge during the Battle of Northampton.
July 10, 1460: Battle of Northampton
On July 10, 1460, the Battle of Northampton took place in England. After the defeat at the Battle of Ludford Bridge, the House of York sought to regain the upper hand over the House of Lancaster. Both were engaged in a conflict known as the Wars of the Roses, which lasted for more than thirty years. The Battle of Northampton, involving nearly 50,000 men, saw the House of York emerge victorious.
December 30, 1460: Battle of Wakefield
On November 30, 1460, the Battle of Wakefield stirred England. In the midst of the Wars of the Roses, which pitted the House of Lancaster against the House of York, the Battle of Wakefield was marked by the death of the Duke of York, Richard of York. The victory in this battle went to the House of Lancaster but did not end the war, as Edward of York was proclaimed king and continued the fighting.
February 17, 1461: Second Battle of St Albans
On February 17, 1461, the Second Battle of St Albans took place in England. Part of the Wars of the Roses between the House of Lancaster and the House of York, the Second Battle of St Albans saw the victory of the troops led by Henry Beaufort of the House of Lancaster. This victory allowed the House of Lancaster to free its king, Henry VI, who had been held by the Yorkists.
June 28, 1461: Coronation of Edward IV of England
On June 28, 1461, Edward IV was proclaimed king of England. The son of Richard of York and Cecily Neville, he became the first king of England, belonging to the House of York. The beginning of his reign was marked by the Wars of the Roses, which pitted his own dynasty against the House of Lancaster in numerous battles over many years. He died suddenly on April 9, 1483.
August 22, 1485: End of the Wars of the Roses
At the Battle of Bosworth, Richard III (of the House of York) is killed, and the victor, Henry Tudor (of the House of Lancaster), is crowned King of England as Henry VII. This battle marks the end of the Wars of the Roses (1455-85). Henry VII married Elizabeth IV of York, niece of Richard III, thus uniting the two Roses and founding the Tudor dynasty, which ruled England until 1603.
Historically, Scots would observe Christmas (sometimes called “Yule” or “Nollaig”) in the same way as Catholic Europe did. Festive days and other church holidays were outlawed as a result of the Reformation’s shift of perspective on traditional Christian feasting days, such as Christmas. Regardless, Scotland officially recognized Christmas Day as a public holiday in 1958, but Boxing Day was only added to the list in 1974. Cozy lodgings, festive events, winter activities, and scenic outdoor attractions make a winter visit to Scotland a somewhat less ordinary experience. Scotland has a variety of attractions, including the Northern Lights, the night sky, the Hogmanay Street Festival, and the Scottish Highlands.
Christmas Traditions in Scotland
Presented below are a few distinctive Scottish Christmas customs:
First Footing
Firstly, it is a long-established custom in Scotland to visit loved ones and acquaintances after the bells ring in order to bring them coal, whiskey, or black bun, which is a token of good stead. This belief, which has its origins in the 8th and 9th centuries with the Viking invasions, states that whoever steps foot into a house first, known as the “first foot,” will either bring good fortune or bad luck for the next year. As a symbol of good fortune, a tall, dark-haired man is seen as the first footer in Scottish traditions.
Santa’s sleigh, part of a display in Glasgow. (Declan Jewell, Flickr)
Singing of Auld Lang Syne
One of the well-known Hogmanay traditions is the singing of Robert Burns’s “Auld Lang Syne,” a song in which participants join arms and sing in harmony. By the middle of the 20th century, this had grown in popularity in Scotland.
Neolithic Solstice Celebrations
Celtic Pagans would commemorate the shortest day of the year with festivities observed during the winter solstice, which typically occurred around December 21 or 22. Part of the purpose of the celebrations was to cheer up the gods and get them to let the sun come out again after a long, gloomy winter.
Yule Logs
There was a time when Yule logs weren’t made of chocolate. An old Celtic Druid ritual with strong ties to the northern port towns of Scotland is its spiritual ancestor. During the 12 days of midwinter, the Druids would burn an oak log continually to protect themselves from darkness and restore power to the Sun, since they thought that the Sun would stand still during this period. The last piece of wood would be salvaged to start the fire the next year, when it had almost burned down entirely.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets and skating rink as viewed from the National Gallery of Scotland. (Ally Crockford, cc by sa 3.0)
Scotland’s Krampus
Although the European Christmas mischief maker Krampus has a Scottish counterpart, Scotland has a long history of having its own version of the character. The children of Islay, an island in the Hebrides, were told that “Crom Dubh na Nollaig,” meaning “the dark crooked one of Christmas,” may pay them a visit if they were mischievous in the days leading up to Christmas. The wind roaring down the chimneys was believed by children to be Krampus’s howls.
Places to Celebrate Christmas in Scotland
These locations in Scotland provide festive experiences, ranging from traditional Christmas markets to natural beauties:
Edinburgh: During the Christmas season, the ancient city of Edinburgh takes on a tranquil ambiance. The streets are decorated with festive lights, and the city hosts Christmas markets. Guests have the option to participate in holiday activities, explore the cityscape, and take guided tours of renowned castles and the Scottish Highlands. There are carnival rides and ice skating on George Street.
Glasgow: Glasgow’s WinterFest, with its festive stalls, holiday drinks, and silent disco, provides a holiday atmosphere. It’s a place for Christmas shopping and soaking up the holiday spirit. Glasgow’s Riverside Museum is located at Pointhouse Quay in the Glasgow Harbour regeneration district.
Aberdeen: Experience a serene Christmas at Aberdeen’s Winter Festival and Christmas Village, featuring an outdoor ice rink, a fairground, and local food and beverages. Visit Aberdeen Art Gallery for Christmas choir performances; visit Santa at Grampian Transport Museum; or visit the Beach Ballroom.
Perth: The Perth Winter Festival is a spot to visit during the Christmas season, offering a range of events such as street performers, magicians, and Santa runs.
Aviemore: During Christmas, Aviemore is surrounded by the Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the United Kingdom. For snowsports enthusiasts, the nearby Cairngorm Mountain outshines other destinations with its on-site ski lifts and equipment rental.
Isle of Arran: The Isle of Arran is a retreat for nature enthusiasts and a location to spend Christmas, with its peaceful countryside and landscapes.
Most Traditional Christmas Scottish Foods
Among the most traditional and beloved Scottish Christmas meals are:
Cock-a-Leekie Soup: Traditional Cock-a-Leekie Soup is prepared with chicken stock, leeks, and sometimes rice or barley.
Clootie Dumpling: Scottish desserts like Clootie Dumpling are a kind of fruit pudding that is cooked in water with flour, breadcrumbs, dried fruit, suet, sugar, and spices. The dish is then wrapped in a cloth for transport.
Shortbread: Shortbread is a traditional Christmas cookie made using traditional Scottish ingredients.
Dundee Cake: It is a traditional Scottish fruit cake and is a Christmas staple.
Mince Pies: It is a traditional Christmas dessert in Scotland, which are small sweet pies filled with a blend of spices and dried fruits.
Scotch Trifle: Often called Tipsy Laird, it is made with layers of fruit, custard, whipped cream, and sponge. It is seasoned with whiskey or sherry.
Traditional Scottish characteristics are often used in Christmas decorations in Scotland.
Scottish-Themed Christmas Tree
An easy way to enjoy a Scottish Christmas is to decorate your tree with ornaments and decorations that are Scottish in theme. There are some well-liked Scottish decorations:
A Heilan coo (Highland cow)
Scottish thistle
Crochet Heilan coo
Scottie dog
Gingerbread Scotsman playing the bagpipes
Tartan Decorations
Linked with Scotland, tartan is a pattern made up of multi-colored bands that run horizontally and vertically. Tartan ornaments are available throughout Christmas.
Use lengthy strands of tartan ribbon or make your own tartan bows to decorate your Christmas tree.Scotland Christmas tartan decoration.
Paper Crafts and Flags
Scots commonly use paper crafts and flags as Christmas decorations. Traditional Scottish garden resources, such as pinecones and twigs, are used to create such paper crafts as Christmas tree decorations.
Red Decorations
Scots often like to add splashes of crimson to both interior and exterior design elements. For a more festive feel during the Christmas season, many Scots opt for red décor. In keeping with the country’s historic patterns, tartan and plaid designs—which often include red—are also commonplace in Scottish Christmas decorations. Garlands and wreaths also use red berries.
Yule Bread
The islands of Shetland and Orkney are the birthplace of the traditional Christmas bread known as Yule bread. A three-thread loaf of caraway seed bread is shaped into a sun symbol by being flipped upside down. There is a pagan undercurrent to the practice because of the folkloric association of caraway seeds with Scotland.
It is customary for the baker to conceal a little object inside the loaf of bread, and the one who discovers it will be bestowed with a year of prosperity (see also: King Cake). Scotland outlawed yule bread for a long time, but it’s now a beloved holiday staple.
History of Christmas in Scotland
The many cultural and religious traditions that make up Scotland have had a profound impact on Christmas celebrations over the years. Before the Reformation in 1560, Christmas in Scotland followed the same pattern as the rest of Catholic Europe. At that time, the holiday was known as “Yule” or “Nollaig” in Gaelic-speaking regions. An earlier recognition of the Winter Solstice—the shortest day of the year—was the source of the Yule festival (others called it Koliada).
Suppression in the Era Following the Reformation
The Reformation changed people’s thinking about old Christian feast days like Christmas, which ultimately led to their elimination. In 1640, the Scottish Parliament passed an act outlawing the “Yule vacation and all observation thereof in time coming.” Singing a Christmas song was already a major offense.
Impact of the Vikings
In the late seventh century AD, the Vikings started attacking Scotland. They eventually made their home there, and they brought with them a pagan festival they called Jól (now called Yule in Scotland) to celebrate the Winter Solstice. It is said that during the darkest season of the year, Yule was celebrated for at least twelve days as a means of remembering ancestors.
Celebrations in the Modern Era
Scotland did not officially recognize Christmas Day as a public holiday until 1958, far into the twentieth century. Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year’s Eve celebration, was the biggest party of the year.
Midwinter celebrations, including gift-giving, official holidays, and feasting, typically took place between December 11 and January 6. Today, Hogmanay (or New Year’s Eve) is still the biggest event of the year.
Religious devotion and joyous celebration are combined in Egypt around Christmas. On January 7th, the event is observed after a 43-day fasting period called “The Holy Nativity Fast,” during which people consume only vegan products. The Coptic Orthodox Church has a liturgy or service on Christmas Eve that might last until four in the morning. Meat, eggs, and butter are staples in the post-service feast as families break their fast together. Baba Noël, Santa Claus, is also invited to the party. Even though Christians make up a small percentage of Egypt’s population, many celebrate the secular parts of Christmas by decorating their homes and public areas with lights, trees, and ornaments.
Christmas Traditions in Egypt
The Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria is home to between 5 and 15 percent of Egypt’s Christian population. According to the number of followers, the Egyptian Christian community is the biggest in the Middle East. There are some unusual Christmas customs observed in Egypt, which are as follows:
Fasting and Feasting: Christians in Egypt observe a strict fast for forty-three days leading up to Christmas, which, by their reckoning, occurs on January 7th. Known as the “Advent” fast, it starts on November 25th and concludes on Christmas Eve. Christians abstain from meat, dairy, and other indulgent foods during Advent as a spiritual and physical cleanse. The fast serves as more than just a personal practice; it fosters community among the Copts, strengthening their faith and providing mutual support.
Christmas Eve Mass: Coptic Orthodox Christians sometimes stay up until four in the morning on Christmas Eve for a special ritual or service. Meat, eggs, and butter are staples in the post-service feast as families break their fast together.
Household Tree and Light Decoration: Christmas is celebrated by Christians who gather as a family for worship sessions and adorn their homes with festive lights and nativity displays.
Baba Noël: Father Christmas is the Egyptian name for Santa Claus. Children hope that he will discreetly drop down some goodies through a window. Baba Noël might find some kahk waiting for him.
Egyptian Christmas Foods: On Christmas Day, Egyptian people give special foods like “Zalabya” (donuts) and “Bouri” (mullet fish) to the impoverished. They also enjoy sharing traditional Coptic meals with loved ones, such as fata, a casserole made with meat and bread.
Places to Visit in Egypt at Christmas
Christmas in Egypt is a special time because of the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and traditions. Among the most popular Christmas destinations in Egypt are these:
Luxor
Luxor Temple Avenue of Sphinxes
Located amid what has been called “the world’s greatest open-air museum,” Luxor is home to a mix of modern architecture and ancient artifacts. Luxor undergoes a seasonal transformation during Christmas. The city’s historic tombs, temples, and ruins, including the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Karnak, are open to visitors. Hot air balloon tours provide views of the lit temples, which is among the unique Christmas activities in Egypt.
The Giza Pyramids Complex
One of the best ways to celebrate Christmas in Egypt is to visit the Giza Pyramids Complex. Three pyramids—the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure—stand tall and majestic. Since the weather is moderate and sunny, the pyramids stand out against the blue sky.
The Grand Egyptian Museum
A Christmas visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum is in order for any history buff with an interest in ancient Egypt. Among the world’s largest museums, this one houses priceless artifacts from ancient Egypt. During Christmas, the museum also goes all out with holiday decorations.
The Valley of the Kings
Where Egypt’s famous ancient pharaohs lie is known as the Valley of the Kings. Particularly during Christmas, this valley is a sight to see since this time of year offers moderate winter weather. The pharaohs of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties are laid to rest here.
Traditional Christmas Foods in Egypt
Both Christians and Muslims in Egypt appreciate these meals, and on Christmas Eve, many families try to prepare a special supper. In Egypt, the most beloved Christmas dishes usually include the following options:
Kahk: On Christmas, the Egyptians bake kahk as early as the second day of Christmas, a treat that looks like shortbread biscuits. These are sugary, buttery cookies that are covered in chocolate with almonds or dried fruit.
Qatayef: A traditional Egyptian Christmas dessert, it is a pancake-like pastry filled with sweetened cheese or walnuts.
Ghyrba: One further kind of cookie that many Egyptians make for Christmas is the ghryba. It’s a shortbread-type biscuit, also known as qurabiya.
Fata: Christian Egyptians arrange a large feast after finishing their prayers; it includes many of the Egyptian foods that they abstained from for forty-three days. In addition to the lamb, this dish has the popular Egyptian dish “Fata,” a lamb broth served with rice, bread, red sauce, garlic, and lamb.
Rice Pudding: Christmas supper includes rice pudding, a traditional side dish made with milk, sugar, rice, and spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon.
Baklava: Layers of phyllo dough filled with honey and almonds form a delicious dessert known as baklava in Egypt, which has Turkish origins.
Fattah: Fattah is a lamb stock-steeped rice and bread dish topped with fried garlic and onions.
Baked Turkey or Lamb: The centerpiece of Christmas dinners in Egypt consists of baked turkey or lamb, while others have roasted chicken or lamb.
History of Christmas in Egypt
Christmas celebrations in Egypt have become more common, likely starting in the early 1990s. The Coptic Orthodox Church, the largest Christian denomination in Egypt, celebrates Christmas on January 7, and the month leading up to it is known as Kiahk. Coptic Orthodox Christians observe a specific fast, essentially adopting a vegan diet, for the 43 days leading up to Christmas, from November 25th to January 6th, called ‘The Holy Nativity Fast.’
Traditional Egyptian Christmas celebrations, rooted in the days leading up to and after December 25th and evolving from rituals honoring Heru (Horus), are considered a recent development in the celebration of Christmas, beginning in the early 1990s.
Despite a low Christian population (5 to 15 million), many Egyptians partake in this secular celebration. Commercialization is evident with the sale of Christmas trees, food, and decorations in most large stores. Streets, parks, and hotels are decorated for the holiday season. Baba Noël, or Father Christmas, is the Egyptian name for Santa Claus. The Egyptian children hope he might come through a window and leave some goodies. Some kahk might be left out for Baba Noël.
Coptic Christians are required to attend a specific liturgy or service on January 6th, Christmas Eve. Services start at 10:30 p.m., with some chapels open for prayer at 10:00 p.m. Many people gather in churches around 9:00 p.m. to socialize.
While some services may extend until 4 in the morning, most conclude shortly after midnight. After the Christmas service, people go home to prepare for the holiday feast. On the seventh day of Christmas, Orthodox Christmas, people gather at home for celebrations, often sharing “kahk,” special sweet biscuits, as gifts.
Public Holidays in Egypt
Every year on a certain day, the following official holidays take place in Egypt:
