The Origin of the Christmas Tree: History and Curiosities

There are some elements that represent the Christmas holidays and have truly incredible stories behind them. In fact, not everyone knows the origin of the Christmas tree and how, over the years, it has adapted to people’s needs, even those of individuals who are not particularly fond of tradition.

There is no home that does not host it, with its sparkling lights and colorful ornaments — not to mention the new technologies for the Christmas tree (LINK to: Christmas Tree Trends in 2024), specifically designed to personalize and enrich it. This should not be considered merely a decorative element, but rather something that has managed to win everyone over. Let’s discover together the true history of the Christmas tree.

How the Legend of the Christmas Tree Was Born

The origin of the Christmas tree is surrounded by numerous stories and legends that vary according to local traditions. One of the most well-known centers around the figure of Saint Boniface, a Christian monk who lived in the 7th century. It is said that during one of his missions in Germany, the saint encountered a pagan community that worshipped an oak tree (a symbol of the god Thor). Boniface wanted to demonstrate the superiority of Christianity and, to do so, he allegedly cut down the oak with a single blow of his axe. In its place, a fir tree miraculously grew — an evergreen tree symbolizing the eternity of Christ and faith in the Christian God. For this reason, it was considered sacred from the very beginning.

This legend marked the use of the fir tree as a symbol of Christmas: from that moment on, people began to decorate it, while still preserving some elements typical of ancient pagan traditions.

The origins of the Christmas tree are not limited to this story alone. Another legend recounts that on the night of Jesus’ birth, the inhabitants of Bethlehem brought gifts for the newborn child. Not only that, near the stable they decorated a tree with colorful ribbons and small lights as a symbolic gesture of joy and affection.

What Is the True History of the Christmas Tree?

There are many legends surrounding it, but the true history of the Christmas tree is rooted in ancient pre-Christian European traditions. According to historical documents and writings that have reached us, many Northern European peoples, such as the Vikings and the Celts, considered evergreen trees as symbols of rebirth and eternal life.

During the winter solstice, these cultures celebrated rituals in honor of nature and the sun, decorating trees with symbols representing abundance, such as flowers and fruits. This tradition was later absorbed with the advent of Christianity and transformed into the one we know today.

The first decorated tree on record dates back to 1510 in Riga, Latvia, where it was publicly adorned in the central square. From that moment on, the tradition took root, and noble families began adopting it during the holiday season.

Thanks to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, the custom spread in the 19th century in England and then to other parts of the world. The Christmas tree also arrived in Italy, introduced by Italy’s first queen, Margherita of Savoy, who in 1840 decorated a large fir tree inside the Royal Palace of Turin. The tradition initially spread among noble and wealthy families.

Over time, this decorated holiday tree became a symbol and an undisputed centerpiece even for less affluent households.

The Different Types of Christmas Trees Today

If in the past decorations were chosen from handcrafted items or simple ornaments, today people seek ideas to decorate the Christmas tree and make it unique and original (LINK to: Original Ideas for Christmas Trees: Colors, Materials and Different Styles). It is no longer just a tradition, but a central design element within an interior space or outside one’s home.

There are also countless variations of Christmas trees designed to meet personal needs and tastes. The natural fir tree remains very popular, thanks to its authentic traditional charm and its unmistakable scent. Many people opt for synthetic or wooden trees instead, choosing an alternative and stylish look.

The Christmas Tree in City Squares: A Symbol of Community

If there is one thing that the origins of the Christmas tree have taught us, it is the importance of preserving traditions. For this reason, every year many cities around the world set up large decorated fir trees in public squares: these become gathering points for both tourists and residents.

They are not merely decorative elements, but symbols of unity and hope. Among the most famous are the tree at Rockefeller Center in New York, the one in Trafalgar Square in London, and the Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square in Rome. A giant illuminated evergreen that helps create an atmosphere of magic and togetherness.