Known as bridal myrtle, the common myrtle has a centuries-old tradition at weddings. It carries a strong symbolic power that has been maintained since ancient times.
What is the significance of myrtle at weddings?
The myrtle symbolizes eternal love, purity and virginity at weddings. It is dedicated to the Greek goddess Aphrodite and the Roman Venus. Since ancient times, brides have worn myrtle branches, either as a wreath, in a bridal bouquet or as a table decoration. Grooms often wear small myrtle bouquets in their lapels.
What does the myrtle promise?
The evergreen shrub with its fine leaves and fragrant white flowers already embodied thegoddess of love in ancient times Myrtle stood for Aphrodite in Greek mythology, and in Roman mythology it was dedicated to Venus. It is considered a symbol of purity and virginity and promises eternal love beyond death.
Where does the custom of wearing a myrtle wreath to a wedding come from?
As early asearly Greece brides decorated themselves with myrtle branches. This custom has also been known in Germany since the 16th century. While women back then wore myrtle wreaths in their hair as bridal decorations, today the branches find their place in numerous bridal bouquets, on wedding candles and as table decorations. The image of a myrtle branch is also often used on invitation cards. Many grooms have also always worn myrtle in the form of small myrtle bouquets in their lapels.
Tip
Planting a myrtle branch for long-term marital happiness
It was already customary for young wives to plant the myrtle branch in the garden at the wedding. If it grew and developed, the bush symbolized lasting marital happiness. This custom is still partly used today.
