The Origins of Christmas Legends and Traditions We Didn’t Know

Wreaths, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, have evolved significantly over time. The evergreen Christmas wreath, traditionally decorated with holly, acquired Christian symbolism; its circular shape represents eternal life, while the holly leaves and berries symbolize Christ’s crown of thorns and blood, as noted by the New York Times.

In contemporary times, wreaths have diversified far beyond their original design, featuring everything from flowers and fruits to glass balls and ribbons, and ranging from artificial to various themed styles. Nowadays, they are widely regarded as a secular symbol of the winter season, transcending their religious origins.