The Christmas Tree

Ernie Mayıs 23, 2022

A potted history

In medieval times in Germany the Christmas tree was originally the Paradise tree, a fir tree hung with apples representing the garden of Eden eventually replaced by red baubles. The German people set up a tree in their homes on 24th December, the religious feast day of Adam and Eve. Wafers were hung on it (symbolizing the host) which are now replaced by cookies. Candles were added as a symbol of Christ.

In the same room would have been the Christmas pyramid

a triangular construction of wood with shelves which held figurines, decorated with evergreens , candles and a star.

By the 16th century the pyramid and paradise tree merged, becoming the Christmas tree we know today, which was introduced to Britain by Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, in the 1800's and was popularised by Charles Dickens in his Christmas tales.