21 June 2011

'Sanzienele' is a Romanian tradition with pre-christian roots which is celebrated on June 24 – which coincides with the Orthodox holiday Ioan Botezatorul (St. John the Baptist). It is a midsummer tradition which celebrates nature and fecundity.

Sanzienele are also called Dragaica in some regions of the country (Muntenia, Oltenia). The word “sanziene” is also used for a plant with golden flowers, which are gathered into wreaths and placed in the house to protect the house and its inhabitants from evil spirits. The legend goes that Sanzienele are young girls who give their magical powers to flowers and herbs during this period.

21 June 2011

'Sanzienele' is a Romanian tradition with pre-christian roots which is celebrated on June 24 – which coincides with the Orthodox holiday Ioan Botezatorul (St. John the Baptist). It is a midsummer tradition which celebrates nature and fecundity.

Sanzienele are also called Dragaica in some regions of the country (Muntenia, Oltenia). The word “sanziene” is also used for a plant with golden flowers, which are gathered into wreaths and placed in the house to protect the house and its inhabitants from evil spirits. The legend goes that Sanzienele are young girls who give their magical powers to flowers and herbs during this period.

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