photo #8842869

Christmas front door Wreath Pagan and Northern European TraditionsBefore Christianity, Germanic and Scandinavian peoples celebrated Yule (the winter solstice) with wreaths. Symbol of Hope: Evergreens were used because they survived the cold, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the eventual return of spring.Wheel of the Year: The circular shape represented the "Wheel of the Year" and the cyclical nature of life.Warding Spirits: Twining prickly branches like holly was thought to ward off mischievous spirits during the dark winter months. 4. Christian Adaptation and Modern EvolutionChristianity eventually assimilated these ancient symbols, giving them new religious meanings. Advent Wreaths: In 16th-century Germany, Lutheran Christians created Advent wreaths with four candles to count down to Christmas. Initially used as table centerpieces, these evolved into the door-hanging decorations we see today.