Traditions in Moldova and Romania
In Moldova and Romania, March 1st brings with it a beautiful spring custom called martisoru. Martisor is physically represented by a small object tied with two braided threads, knotted, white and red, which signifies the fight of life over death, of health against disease. Martisor is also considered a talisman of luck, well-being and appreciation. It is customary for men to offer the ladies and gentlemen of their lives martyrdom, as a sign of respect and admiration.
The purpose of tying or putting the martisoru is to be lucky during the year, to be as healthy and clean as silver with the arrival of spring.
The martisoru is also considered a symbol of spring, the return to life of nature and everything around it. Martisor is worn for about two weeks or all of March, because it brings optimism and faith.
